Growers shift away from mangosteen production to grow more durian
Malaysian mangosteens have become more expensive than durians, following a shift in the domestic production of both fruits.
According to a report from The Star, the price of Musang King Durians has dropped to as low as RM16.80/kg (US$4.25), while locally-grown mangosteen prices have reached RM20/kg (US$5.06).
Fruit seller Yong Boon Sing told The Star that local mangosteen production had been affected by demand for durian. Durian farmers typically adopt a mixed-planting method, co-planting mangosteen and other fruit to provide out-of-season income.
However, many durian growers have cut down or avoided planting leafy mangosteen trees to maximise the sun and rain reaching durian trees. The market has had to turn to imported mangosteen to fill the gap.
“This has reduced mangosteen supply and pushed up prices,” he said.
“I do not have local mangosteens at my shops. This is a shame because Malaysian mangosteens are tastier, juicier and sweeter.”
Imported mangosteens still sell for cheaper, but increased durian production is sending prices falling.
“Mangosteens used to be cheap. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, customers paid RM10 for 3kg,” said fruit seller Walter Chew.
“Prices have gone up in the past two years. Mangosteens from Thailand are cheaper, about RM5/kg.
“Varieties (of durian) such as D13 and Red Prawn are widely available currently, with prices as low as RM5 per fruit. We are even offering buy-one-free-one promotions.”
