Coconut oil prices in Kerala are climbing again despite government efforts to bring them down. The price of Kera coconut oil, which had been reduced to ₹479 per litre, has now climbed back to ₹495. Meanwhile, many leading brands are selling at rates above ₹500.

At the mills, coconut oil is priced at ₹500 per litre, while in the open market, some brands are available between ₹390 and ₹420. During Onam, Supplyco sold subsidised coconut oil at ₹339 per litre and Kera oil at ₹457 per litre.

The spike in coconut oil prices is directly linked to the surge in coconut prices. In September 2024, coconuts were selling for just ₹40–48. Prices rose to ₹90 last month before dipping, and have now gone up again. During Onam, coconuts were sold for ₹75–80. Currently, wholesale prices stand at ₹65, while retail prices are around ₹75. Farmers are benefiting, with normal coconuts fetching ₹25–30 and dehusked coconuts selling at ₹60 per kg.

According to traders, a ₹10–20 hike in coconut oil prices can be expected whenever coconut prices go up. However, even when coconut rates dip slightly, coconut oil prices rarely come down significantly.

Back in September 2024, coconut oil was priced at only ₹260–270 per litre. With the festive season approaching, demand for copra (dried coconut kernels) in North India is set to rise.