Thiruvananthapuram: Escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia have brought Kerala’s exports of fruits, vegetables, and fish products to a near standstill, causing significant losses for farmers and traders ahead of the Ramadan peak season, according to industry sources.

Exporters report that both air and sea cargo routes have been severely disrupted, with losses already running into crores of rupees. Air cargo exports from Kerala’s four international airports, Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Kannur, have largely stopped due to flight suspensions to several Gulf destinations.

The situation has been compounded by maritime disruptions following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, stalling cargo shipments by sea. Normally, Kerala exports around 150 tonnes of fruits and vegetables daily, with nearly one-third of this volume handled through Thiruvananthapuram airport. In recent days, however, have seen zero shipments due to flight cancellations.

Ramadan season impact

The disruption comes at a critical time as the holy month of Ramadan marks the peak export season for Kerala’s farm produce to Middle East markets, which are the primary buyers of the state’s fruits and vegetables. The period usually ensures strong prices and steady demand, particularly for crops such as pineapples, which are exported in large quantities.

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Farmers fear that the current export halt could wipe out a major share of their annual earnings. Limited flights operating only to Oman have imposed cargo rates nearly three times higher than usual, making exports economically unviable.

Industry experts warn that if the West Asia crisis persists, exporters and farmers will face severe financial losses, with much of the perishable produce potentially forced into the domestic market at sharply lower prices, further affecting the already distressed agricultural sector.

IANS