His family and friends were puzzled when he made the career change. The fruit, durian, has long been a cherished part of local cultures in South-east Asia, where it is grown in abundance.

"But my friends and I are eager to try." Continue reading "I often buy a durian to share with my family on weekends, usually priced at about 150 yuan, and durian is also a regular at local ...

For centuries, the durian has been both venerated and vilified, earning its place as the most polarizing fruit in the world.

Farmers growing durian and coffee earned up to billions of dong (VND1 billion = US$39,500) last year thanks to soaring prices or yields.

China’s middle class consumers have been tightening their purse strings, but their appetite for durian – pungent, spiky fruit mostly imported from Southeast Asia – continues to grow.

"I often buy a durian to share with my family on weekends, usually priced at about 150 yuan, and durian is also a regular at local companies' afternoon teas and annual parties for their employees." ...