Several hundred people lined up at a supermarket in Haikou, Hainan province, on Thursday to buy imported durians being sold at almost half their usual price, shortly after the launch of the island province's special customs operations. A staff member at Wanghao Supermarket said the durians sold out within an hour of going on sale, The Nanguo Metropolis Daily reported. "Malaysian durian used to be expensive and difficult to buy fresh," said a local surnamed Chen, who purchased some fruit. Experts say the island-wide special customs operations mark a significant step in China's investment and trade liberalisation. HNA Cargo, which transported the durians from Malaysia, is expanding its direct sourcing of produce and handling procurement, shipping, and customs clearance.

Source: The Star December 22, 2025 13:55 UTC