Durian price slump drives Thai export plan and Malaysian hill‑fruit sales

The Thai government has launched a special program to distribute about 300,000 tonnes of durian from the south after Chinese importers temporarily suspended orders over quality concerns. Production in southern Thailand is projected at 752,515 tonnes this year, 30 % higher than the previous season, while premium Monthong durian now sells for roughly RM4‑RM12 per kilogram.

In Malaysia, lower prices for the popular Musang King variety have not dampened demand for organically grown hill durian (durian bukit). Local Orang Asli growers harvest the fruit once a year without fertilizer or chemicals and sell it at around RM2 per kilogram, noting its distinct taste and texture despite the overall market downturn.