The topic of “durian prices continuously falling” is once again trending. In the wholesale markets of Beijing, durians are priced at just over ten yuan per kilogram (in Chinese Renminbi, RMB). As June approaches, durian prices have dropped by over 10% compared to the previous month, with some varieties even starting with a “1” in their prices. The main reason for the consecutive decline in domestic durian prices is the large influx of imports, causing oversupply.
Starting from the end of March this year, durian prices in mainland China have been on a downward trend. In May, wholesale prices of durians have been slashed significantly, plummeting from around 45 RMB per kilogram to approximately 25 RMB.
According to reports from the Beijing Youth Daily, the prices of durians in various supermarkets, fruit shops, and community markets in Beijing have generally remained below 30 RMB per kilogram.
As of June 1st, the wholesale prices of Jinzhen durians at the Xinfadi wholesale market in Beijing have dropped to a minimum of 21.5 RMB per kilogram, while Gan Yao durians have fallen to 15 RMB per kilogram.
Entering June, at the Xinfadi market in Beijing, on the previous trading day, the wholesale price range for Thai Jinzhen durians was between 21.5 RMB to 27.5 RMB per kilogram (compared to 26 RMB to 28 RMB a month ago). The price of Vietnamese Gan Yao durians has dropped below 20 RMB per kilogram, currently standing at 15 RMB to 17 RMB, with an average price decrease of 23.8%.
It has been reported that “opening durian mystery boxes” has become a major trend in online fruit sales.
“I have bought durian mystery boxes several times, with different options, such as selling durians individually, selling them in boxes, and some without guaranteed taste,” said Mr. Li, a durian enthusiast.
Mr. Li, who is a durian lover, has recently been drawn to opening durian “mystery boxes” online. He explained that the reason for choosing mystery boxes is mainly due to their affordable price, interactive nature, and the element of surprise. “With live ordering, you can eat them shortly after and pick your own, all from the comfort of your home, maximizing the experience.”
Historically, durian prices in mainland China have been high due to the lack of domestic durian production regions. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, abundant in durian cultivation, have always maintained affordable prices.
Why have durian prices in mainland China continuously decreased this year? Essentially, it is due to the significant imports. With abundant durian plantations in various countries, there is fierce competition in selling, naturally leading to a drop in import prices.
Regarding the decrease in durian prices this year, businesses have provided more detailed explanations. “The period from March to October each year is the peak season for durians, especially in May and June, when we witness the highest supply peak,” mentioned a fruit shop owner. The freshly harvested durians from Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Vietnam have flooded the market, resulting in increased supply, causing prices to drop due to oversupply.
Relevant data indicates that durian imports have grown approximately 50 times over the past 20 years, with a total import value of 47.23 billion RMB in 2023. According to the World Trade Organization’s 2022 statistics, China is the world’s largest durian importing and consuming country, accounting for 82% of global durian consumption. China Customs Administration data shows that in 2023, China imported over 1.42 million tons of fresh durians, a growth of over 70%. Among these, 929,000 tons came from Thailand, and 493,000 tons came from Vietnam.
Although the significant drop in durian prices has made it easier for citizens to purchase, experts advise caution on the consumption levels. “Durian is rich in fiber, moderate consumption helps promote intestinal motility and digestion. However, excessive intake, especially for children, may lead to excessive dietary fiber absorbing water in the intestines, potentially causing blockages, reduced intestinal fluids, resulting in symptoms of dry stools, constipation, bloating, and indigestion.”