'Durian freedom' spreads as prices dip across nation

Durian prices are tumbling as booming imports, faster logistics and a wave of seasonal fruit make the tropical fruit increasingly affordable for consumers.

Prices for some durian varieties have fallen 10 percent to 20 percent from a year earlier, according to wholesale market data and retailers. Durian that once sold for as much as 300 yuan ($44) to 400 yuan each can now be found for less than 100 yuan in some markets, fueling social media buzz around achieving "durian freedom" — a phrase used by Chinese consumers to describe "unlimited" access to previously expensive foods.