Pricey durians in demand even as Covid-19 dampens S’poreans' appetite for the thorny fruit

Buyers are opting for branded varieties like Mao Shan Wang, with more choosing to get the fruit delivered, say vendors

Mr Cedrick Shui, second-generation owner of Ah Seng Durian at Ghim Moh Market, says the Mao Shan Wang variety accounts for 80 per cent of sales. The shop sells about 500kg of durians a day.
Mr Cedrick Shui, second-generation owner of Ah Seng Durian at Ghim Moh Market, says the Mao Shan Wang variety accounts for 80 per cent of sales. The shop sells about 500kg of durians a day. PHOTOS: ONG WEE JIN, ALFRED HUANG
A new variety called D226 Tupai King (above) has been getting the market’s attention. Tupai is Malay for squirrel and it is said that the animal is particularly fond of this fruit, which has been described as buttery and syrupy, with an alcoholic note.
A new variety called D226 Tupai King (above) has been getting the market’s attention. Tupai is Malay for squirrel and it is said that the animal is particularly fond of this fruit, which has been described as buttery and syrupy, with an alcoholic note. PHOTOS: ONG WEE JIN, ALFRED HUANG
 Black Pearl or Tai Yuan.
Black Pearl or Tai Yuan. PHOTO: ST FILE
Golden Phoenix.
Golden Phoenix. PHOTO: ST FILE
Green Bamboo or Tekka.
Green Bamboo or Tekka. PHOTO: ST FILE
Mao Shan Wang.
Mao Shan Wang. PHOTO: ST FILE
Red Prawn or Ang Hae.
Red Prawn or Ang Hae. PHOTO: ST FILE
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The Covid-19 pandemic may have dampened the appetite among some Singaporeans for durians, but those buying are going for the branded, more expensive varieties.

Many are also opting to have the thorny fruit delivered to their doorstep.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on June 28, 2020, with the headline Pricey durians in demand even as Covid-19 dampens S’poreans' appetite for the thorny fruit . Subscribe