Durian lovers in Singapore are enjoying a rare treat as the durian season returns this June. Prices have dropped significantly compared to previous seasons. A bumper harvest in Malaysia has created a unique market dynamic. Durian suppliers face export constraints, leading to an oversupply of the fruit and dumping in states like Penang. Prices in Singapore are unlikely to track too closely due to overheads, but these are still among the most affordable rates in recent years.
Many durian sellers across the island are now offering the popular Musang King or Mao Shan Wang durians at about $20 per kilogram, with some stalls reportedly going as low as $8 per kilogram, though these tend to be smaller or lower‑grade fruit, with a reportedly “very bland” taste. The heavy rainfall earlier in the year has reportedly altered flavour profiles, but the sheer volume of fruit has nonetheless driven prices down.
Read Also: How Spike Durian Is Turning Premium Mao Shan Wang Into An All-Year Business In Singapore
Musang King (Mao Shan Wang)
- Whole fruit: $8 to $30/kg
- Boxed packs: $25 to $35 per box (~500g)
Musang King remains the most sought‑after variety, prized for its creamy texture and bittersweet flavour. Premium husks, such as Black Gold, still command prices between $20 and $30 per kg, especially from reputable sellers.
D24 (Sultan)
- Whole fruit: $10 to $15/kg
- Boxed packs: $25 to $35 per box (~500g)
Long before Musang King’s explosion in popularity, D24 was Singapore’s original favourite, offering a balanced, bittersweet flavour.
Black Thorn (D200)
- Whole fruit: $12 to $33/kg
- Boxed packs: $30 to $60 per box (~500g)
Black Thorn is the premium darling of the durian world, known for its complex flavour and smooth and creamy texture.
Other Popular Durian Varieties
- Red Prawn (Hong Xia): $12 to $18/kg; boxed packs $20 to $60
- Golden Phoenix (Jin Feng): $15 to $26/kg; boxed packs $30 to $70
- XO: $10 to $20/kg; boxed packs $20 to $50
- S17/D17: boxed packs $15 to $55
These varieties provide additional diversity in flavour profiles, from Red Prawn’s sweetness to XO’s boozy bitterness. Their mid‑range prices make them popular alternatives when buying the more popular Musang King or Black Thorn variety feels too indulgent.
The 2026 durian season has brought a welcome reprieve for us in Singapore. Musang King prices dipping below S$20/kg is a rare sight, while D24 and other varieties remain comfortably affordable. Black Thorn continues to command premium rates, but whether you’re a casual fan or a durian devotee, this season offers one of the best opportunities in years to savour the king of fruits at friendlier prices.
Beware Of Unscrupulous Sellers
While it is less rampant in recent years, it still pays to be vigilant when buying durians in Singapore. Over the years, there have been repeated instances of sellers mislabelling lower‑quality fruits as premium varieties to command higher prices. One common tactic has been passing off ordinary kampung durians or less popular hybrids as Musang King (Mao Shan Wang), banking on the name recognition and consumer demand.
Some sellers may try to pass off existing stock as new or obscure varieties that are not available in Singapore. These sellers prey on unsuspecting buyers that are generally unaware of the difference between the more popular varieties and cheaper cultivars that have a different taste profile.
In general, don’t rely solely on labels or stall signage. Always inspect the flesh, ask the seller to open the husk, and taste before committing to bulk purchases. Authentic Musang King has a distinct golden‑yellow flesh, small seeds, and a creamy, bittersweet flavour, traits that you won’t find in cheaper substitutes cannot replicate. By being cautious, buyers can avoid paying premium prices for inferior fruit and ensure they’re truly getting the durian experience they expect.
Read Also: Guide On The Different Durian Types And How Much They Cost
