Kalpetta: A sharp surge in the price of biryani rice has left traders and hoteliers across Kerala deeply concerned. The price of Kaima rice, a variety widely used for biryani in the state, has now skyrocketed to ₹230 per kg, nearly doubling over the past three months.

Just a few months ago, this rice variety was available at ₹110–₹115 per kg. Now, popular brands such as Degon and Village are priced around ₹215, while Triple Deer is retailing at ₹225 per kg. The KTS brand has also jumped from ₹110 to ₹220 per kg. Retailers say this rise in price is affecting business significantly.

What’s causing price hike?

Most of Kerala's Kaima rice is sourced from West Bengal. Traders attribute the price hike to a combination of climate-related crop damage and increased exports, which have tightened domestic supply.

They also point out that Kaima rice achieves optimal taste and quality when aged for two years. However, much of the well-aged stock has already been exported, further escalating prices in the local market.

Rise in biriyani price

As rice prices climb, hotels across the state have increased the prices of biryani. Both chicken and beef biryani now cost ₹20 more per plate on average, pushing up everyday food costs for consumers.

Kerala is one of the largest consumers of biryani rice in the country. With prices rising daily, traders warn of a deepening crisis. “Earlier, buying 30 tonnes of biryani rice cost ₹30 lakh. Now, it costs ₹60 lakh,” said T Shahid, Manager of Golden Hyper Centre in Kalpetta.

He added that there's little hope of price relief until the next harvest. Traders are calling for immediate government-level intervention to curb inflation and stabilise the market.

Coconut oil prices fall slightly, but relief limited

In contrast, coconut oil prices, which had surged to ₹440 per litre, have now come down to around ₹380 per litre. Despite this reduction, prices remain higher than the ₹200 per litre mark seen just two months ago. Traders believe prices will only become genuinely affordable if they fall below ₹200 again.

The spike in coconut oil prices was also being blamed on reduced production. As a result, many households and eateries have begun substituting coconut oil with sunflower oil and palm oil, which are relatively cheaper.