Singapore's Channel NewsAsia (CNA) reported that heavy rains and flooding in Johor, Malaysia's main durian producing state, could halt supplies for the durian season starting in late May, leading to higher prices for durian exports to Singapore and China.

Malaysian Fruit Farmers Association deputy president Francis Hong said there had been heavy rain and flooding in the past month in areas such as Segamat, Batu Pahat and Muar. Bad weather affecting the flowering of durian trees, coupled with a lack of sunlight, could lead to a 50 per cent drop in production.

Malaysia's durian season, which usually runs from May to August, may be delayed until early June this year. According to a Johor grower, popular durian varieties such as Musang King, red shrimp and blackthorn may be slightly more expensive once the durian season starts. Musang King durians, which are usually exported to Singapore and China at RM40-45 / kg (62-69 yuan/ kg), are expected to rise to RM60-65 / kg (about 92-100 yuan/kg) for Segamat exports this season.