Thai durians

I now live in Thailand, but came back to Indonesia in March and April to visit old friends. I was surprised to see Thai durians on sale at Sogo Department Store in Plaza Indonesia. Surprised because of the outrageous prices. "Chance" durians were Rp 32,000 a kilo and "Mon Tong" durians were Rp 35,000 a kilo.

Two days later, I came back home to Thailand (I live in a small city some 80 kilometers west of Bangkok). "Chance" is selling here for Rp 1800 - Rp 2500 and "Mon Tong" for Rp 2500 - Rp 3500.

Be warned, Indonesians: Transportation costs and import taxes increase prices, but 1100-1200 percent mark-ups are far beyond those costs. Somebody is making obscene profits at your expense.

PETER BURGESS

Thailand