Durian Prices Skyrocket, Yet Farmers Remain Uncheered

On November 27th, durian wholesalers announced a price increase of 5,000 VND/kg compared to the previous day.

Specifically, Dona durian from the Mekong Delta is priced at 125,000 VND/kg (Grade A), 115,000 VND/kg (Grade B), and Grades C and D at 55,000 VND/kg.

Compared to late October, Dona durian prices have surged by 25,000 VND/kg.

Ri 6 durian is widely available at 68,000 VND/kg (Grade A) and 55,000 VND/kg (Grade B), with Grades C and D at 35,000 VND/kg. Some wholesalers offer higher prices, around 71,000 VND/kg for Grade A Ri 6, but with stricter selection criteria.

The director of a durian cooperative in Vinh Long reported that Ri 6 durian purchased directly from orchards ranges from 58,000 to 62,000 VND/kg, while Monthong durian is at 80,000 VND/kg.

Although prices are higher than during the main season, they are only about half of what they were last year. Meanwhile, off-season production costs are 2-3 times higher, leaving farmers less enthusiastic.

Mr. Nguyen Van Muoi, Deputy Secretary-General of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, stated that durian prices have risen due to limited supply. This scarcity is attributed to the off-season months, and the situation is expected to persist until March next year.

“Off-season durian quantities are typically low. This year, the shortage is more severe due to flooding in many Mekong Delta orchards. Additionally, low off-season prices last year (from early 2025) discouraged farmers from cultivating this season, opting instead for natural fruiting and harvesting during the main season after April,” Mr. Muoi explained.

However, some markets offer durian at relatively lower prices, as these are “overflow” products with a significant proportion. This highlights the need for improved cultivation techniques to enhance quality, ensuring compliance with export standards and domestic consumption requirements.