Durians: The Popular Fruit in Asia
Thursday, 2026/01/15115 words2 minutes165 reads
China's growing appetite for durians is reshaping the economies of Southeast Asian towns. Raub, a small town in Malaysia, has become renowned for its Musang King durians, a premium variety highly prized in China.
The demand for durians in China has skyrocketed, with imports reaching a record $7 billion in 2024. This surge has transformed farming practices in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, where farmers are now prioritizing durian cultivation over traditional crops.
However, this boom also brings challenges. There are concerns about food safety, environmental impact, and the potential for China to develop its own durian industry. Despite these issues, for now, Southeast Asian farmers are reaping the benefits of China's durian craze.
