More expensive than abalone: Durian prices spike, 1kg Mao Shan Wang for $45

Prices for durians have been surging, and a few weeks ago, it was reported that prices have shot up to a 33-year high. 

Unfortunately, the trend has so far, shown no signs of abating. 

Recently, Lianhe Wanbao reported that one kg of Mao Shan Wang could cost more than S$40. 

With astronomical prices like these, even sellers professed that the fruit has gotten too expensive. 

Two durian sellers from Lorong 27, Geylang, and Toa Payoh Lorong 8, told reporters that the prices for Mao Shan Wang has reached as high as S$45 a kg, a record high in Singapore.

Said the vendor from Toa Payoh:

“I’ve been selling fruits for over 50 years, but I’ve never seen such rates.

“This is too high.

“Last year, one kg of Mao Shan Wang was going for a range between S$18 and S$20. 

“I expected it to be more expensive this year, maybe around S$20 to S$30, but I didn’t foresee the huge increase.”

The Geylang vendor chimed in:

“Currently, one kg of Mao Shan Wang purchased directly from Malaysia costs about RM80 to RM 90 (S$30). 

“In the local market, it goes for around S$45, which is quite reasonable already.”

It is understood part of the reason for the spike in prices was a decease in the amount of durians produced.

Coupled with an increase in the export to China, Hong Kong and other countries, the scarcity thus fuelled the price spike.

The two vendors added that many locals have started shying away due to the high prices, and their customers this year have mainly been foreign tourists.

The Geylang vendor continued:

“Durians have become so expensive, even more so than abalone.

“Singaporeans may feel the pinch, but the Chinese tourists on the other hand, think that the prices are reasonable.

“This is because even if they buy it in China or online, it would cost about RMB100 to RMB200 (S$40) a kg.