Oranges, apples, pineapples, and other fruits have become significantly more expensive this December compared to last year
Kochi: Consumers in Kerala are facing a steep increase in fruit prices, with oranges, apples, and pineapples becoming costlier due to decreased availability. Prices have surged by ₹50–100 per kilo compared to December 2024.
Climate change and the depreciation of the rupee against the dollar are key factors driving the price hike for both domestic and imported fruits. Kerala imports various fruits from around 25 countries, and the cost of imports has risen significantly.
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Apples, the top-selling fruit in Kerala, now cost between ₹220 and ₹290 per kilo, with some premium varieties exceeding ₹300. Last year, apples were sold at around ₹100 per kilo. The domestic apple season has ended, and imported varieties are now reaching the market at higher costs.
Oranges are priced at ₹100–110 per kilo, ₹50 higher than last year, while watermelons (Kiran variety) have jumped from ₹15 to ₹40–45 per kilo. Guava is selling for ₹110–120 per kilo, seedless grapes ₹200–220, and premium pomegranates at ₹200.
Pineapple prices have also surged to ₹50 per kilo, up from below ₹40 in December 2024. Reduced availability of other fruits has shifted consumer demand to pineapple, pushing prices higher. Traders expect prices to remain elevated until mid-January.
Yahya Koyakutty, President of the All Kerala Fruit Merchants Association, said despite high demand, fruit availability remains limited due to import costs and climatic factors affecting production.
Published: 21 Dec 2025, 09:10 am IST
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