Kerala fish prices drop sharply post trawling ban; Chicken rates also fall ahead of Onam

Kannur: Fish prices in Kerala have seen a sharp decline following the end of the 52-day trawling ban, which was in effect from June 10 to July 31. With increased availability of local catch, prices at markets have returned to more affordable levels.

For instance, king fish, which had peaked at Rs 1,300 per kg during the trawling ban, is now selling for Rs 500 – 600 per kg at the busy Thalassery fish market in Kannur. Similar downward trends are seen across other popular varieties:

• Mackerel is now priced at Rs 80 to Rs 120, with larger ones fetching up to Rs 240 per kg.
• Small sardines are selling between Rs 80 and Rs 120.
• Pomfret, currently available only in smaller sizes, is priced at Rs 200 – 240 per kg.
• Shrimps, depending on size, range between Rs 200 and Rs 500 per kg.

Local traders report slight price variations across the state, but confirm that the lift of the trawling ban has stabilised supply and brought prices down from their seasonal highs.

While consumers are benefiting from reduced prices now, experts warn that fish prices could surge again with the approach of the Onam festival season.

Chicken prices also fall

Not only fish but also chicken prices have fallen in recent weeks. According to local poultry dealers:

• Wholesale chicken prices are now averaging Rs 94 per kg, down from Rs 112 just weeks ago.
• Retail prices have decreased to Rs 120 per kg, compared to Rs 132 earlier.

Some traders report that during the Malayalam month of ‘Karkadakam’, prices had dipped as low as Rs 80 per kg. However, this relief may be short-lived.

With the onset of the Malayalam month of ‘Chingam’ (start of Malayalam calendar) and the resumption of wedding functions across Kerala, poultry demand is set to increase as well.