The prices of durian fruits are expected to increase by at least 30% this year, attributed to lower produce and higher fertiliser costs. 

According to a consultant for the durian industry, Lim Chin Khee, Musang King – which used to be priced at RM45 to RM48 per kg – may now go up to RM60. Meanwhile, the Black Thorn variety could now cost RM80, up from its previous price of between RM60 to RM70 per kg. 

Lim commented that this hike in price is due to the reduced production of the crops, caused by the rainy weather in many parts of the country between the end of March to April 2022. “When it rains, the leaves start to flush, causing a competition in nutrients for development between fruits and flowers. It takes between 90 and 100 days from anthesis (the flowering of the buds) to the maturity of durian fruits. However, due to the severe weather, it is estimated that durian trees are producing only 30% of last year’s amount,” he further explained.

Aside from that, orchard owners also said that the increase in the price of fertilisers has contributed to the price hike of durian fruits as well. Eric Yeap, who owns a durian orchard, shared that fertilisers that used to retail at RM130 (for 50kg) is now going at RM250. 

The increase in fertiliser prices is caused primarily by the Russia-Ukraine conflict; fertilisers require a large amount of gas and energy to produce, and Russia is a key exporter of oil and natural gas. Additionally, disruptions to the global supply chain – such as due to the closure of the Shanghai port in China to contain the Covid-19 pandemic – have also led to higher fertiliser prices.

 

Despite these factors, some durian traders said that they will still scout around before deciding on whether they should increase the prices of their fruits. Tan Chee Wei – who operates a durian store in Paya Terubong, Penang – commented that the fruit season has just started in Pulau Pinang. “The price is high now as fruits have just started to drop. Due to the foreseen shortage, we are worried that prices from suppliers might increase. If durians are pricier, we may end up selling less as most consumers are also being affected by the weak economy,” he added.

Ah Kok – another durian trader in Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang – also stressed that durian traders cannot simply raise durian prices, even with the lower supply of fruits. “I’m really hoping to have more to sell as tourists will be coming soon but yet, we cannot simply raise prices,” he said.

(Source: The Star)

• TAGS:
• Black Thorn Durians
• China
• Durian
• Durian Prices
• Musang King Durians
• Russia-Ukraine Crisis