Durian enthusiasts in Singapore are thrilled as the prices of the beloved fruit plummet due to an oversupply from Malaysia. This year, the spiky and aromatic durians are so plentiful that they can even be found in claw machines, allowing fans to snag one for just a dollar.

With Malaysia being the primary supplier, providing over 85% of Singapore’s durians, the influx has driven prices to historical lows. Premium varieties like Musang King, which usually retail for S$12 to S$13 per kilogram, were available for as little as S$3 earlier this month. “This is the lowest price I’ve ever seen,” remarked Sam Tan, executive director of MAPC, a leading durian supplier.

The current abundance can be attributed to Malaysian farmers diversifying into durian cultivation since 2016, shifting away from traditional crops such as palm oil and rubber. However, durian trees typically require five to seven years before they start bearing fruit, meaning that the current yield reflects investments made years ago.

An unusual heatwave earlier this year has also impacted the quality of the durians, leading to lower prices. Despite the dip in quality, Singapore continues to import over 100,000 kilograms of durians daily during peak season.

Moreover, it’s not just Malaysia that is increasing its durian production. Farmers in Thailand and Vietnam have also pivoted to durians from other crops, primarily targeting the booming market in China, where the fruit is rapidly gaining popularity.

Although the demand remains high, quality issues have affected the market. “Hot and dry weather has resulted in 50% to 60% of the durians developing burnt seeds and having less ‘meat,’” Tan explained.

Singaporean fan Melissa Yap, 55, expressed her delight, stating that she and her husband have been indulging in durians up to three times a week due to the reduced prices. “We are really happy that durians are more affordable now and will certainly be eating more in the coming weeks.”