The Homeland of Musang King: Vietnam Imports Durian for Domestic Consumption

Durian Prices Fluctuate in Opposite Directions

On October 29th, durian wholesalers announced that the purchase price for Dona durians (Thai, Monthong) ranged between $3.78 – $3.92 per kg (Type A), while Type B was $0.84 cheaper per kg for those grown in the Central Highlands. This price increased by approximately $0.21 per kg compared to two days prior due to limited supply and less stringent testing procedures.

In the Mekong Delta, Ri 6 durians were priced at $3.16 – $3.24 per kg (Type A), with Type B being $0.63 cheaper per kg. These prices are lower than before due to heavy rainfall in the region, which has affected the quality. Notably, many orchards have been submerged for extended periods, forcing farmers to harvest early and sell lower-quality durians at significantly reduced prices to recoup some of their investment.

According to the latest data from the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association (Vinafruit), durian exports from Vietnam reached nearly $2.77 billion in the first nine months of 2025, a 1.7% decrease compared to the same period last year.

China Dominates with 94% Market Share

China remains the leading market, accounting for $2.59 billion, or nearly 94% of Vietnam’s durian exports. However, this figure is still 0.2% lower than the same period last year.

Among the top 10 durian importing markets of Vietnam, Malaysia saw the strongest growth, surging by 657% compared to the same period. Specifically, Malaysia spent over $2 million on durian imports, with expectations of further increases as businesses report receiving more orders from this market.

Malaysia Seeks Vietnamese Musang King Durian

Malaysia is renowned for its Musang King durian, dubbed the “King of Durian” for its exceptional quality. However, according to businesses, the main drawback of Malaysian Musang King is its high cost, making it unaffordable for most consumers.

Additionally, Malaysian durians have low yields, are harvested only when fully ripe, and undergo a labor-intensive process of peeling and freezing, resulting in very high costs. Moreover, due to being harvested at peak ripeness, they have a slightly bitter taste that not everyone enjoys.

In contrast, Vietnamese Musang King durians are becoming increasingly affordable due to higher production volumes and improving quality. As a result, Malaysia imports Vietnamese Musang King durians for domestic sale, while prioritizing exports of their own durians due to higher international prices.

Similarly, Thailand, the world’s leading durian exporter, spent $34 million on Vietnamese durian imports in the first nine months of the year. This is because Vietnam has a year-round supply, whereas Thailand’s durian production is seasonal.