Climate change squeezes Malaysian durian growers as they chase China’s booming market

Durian growers in Malaysia are grappling with the challenges posed by climate change as they strive to meet the surging demand from Chinese consumers. Stephen Chow, a durian orchard owner, and his workers labor tirelessly in the fields under the cover of night, equipped with headlamps to harvest the highly sought-after premium varieties like Musang King and Black Thorn. However, the rising cost of production is making it difficult for these orchard owners to stay afloat in a market dominated by Thailand and Vietnam.

Chow's orchard in Karak, a small town near Kuala Lumpur, has faced multiple setbacks due to extreme weather events. In 2021, heavy rainfall led to flooding, damaging about 100 durian trees and machinery. Subsequent years saw persistent rain during the flowering season, resulting in pollination failure and a significant drop in yield. This year, Chow faces another hurdle with soaring temperatures and unpredictable rainfall during the crucial period, which has led him to conclude that breaking even is a distant dream.

The challenges are compounded by rising fuel and fertilizer prices, primarily due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has further increased operational costs. Additionally, an oversupply of durians in Malaysia, caused by hot and dry weather leading to faster maturity of trees, has resulted in a sharp decline in prices. Grade A Musang King durians, which fetched around $8.6 per kilogram in early July, have dropped significantly, falling to a third of their peak price in 2024.

Despite the efforts of growers like Chow to adapt to these changing conditions, the harsh reality is that their plight is far from over as they continue to chase China's booming durian market.