In Kerala, coconut prices have dropped by 40%, yet middlemen are selling them at inflated rates, causing financial strain on consumers. The price of green coconuts has decreased from 78 rupees per kilogram to just 42 rupees.
The current price of dried coconut stands at 52 rupees per kilogram, while copra has fallen from 200 rupees to 150 rupees per kilogram. Coconut oil prices also reflect this downward trend, dropping from over 500 rupees per liter to 260 rupees.
This significant drop in coconut prices has led to a severe financial crisis for farmers. Reports indicate that middlemen are exploiting the price differences between northern and southern Kerala. In northern regions, green coconuts sell for around 40-42 rupees per kilogram, whereas in southern districts, they are priced between 65-70 rupees.
The government faces pressure to intervene and stabilize prices to support struggling farmers. Increased production in Tamil Nadu has contributed to the price drop in Kerala, exacerbating the situation for local producers.
Additionally, export disruptions to the Gulf due to regional conflicts have affected coconut availability. The ongoing heatwave has also led to a sudden increase in coconut supply in the market.
Observers expect that without government intervention, both farmers and consumers will continue to face challenges as market manipulation persists.
