Chavakkad: As Christmas and New Year celebrations approach, fish prices have surged dramatically in Kerala, with most varieties now priced at double what they were just a week ago.

The price of Kingfish (Aykura), in particular, has seen a sharp increase. Just 10 days ago, Kingfish was priced between Rs 600-700 per kg, but now it costs between Rs 1200-1400. With such steep prices, many are removing the fish from sale as customers are unwilling to buy at these inflated rates.

Another popular fish for festive occasions, Pomfret (Avoli), has become increasingly scarce, prompting imports from Karnataka and Goa. It is currently priced at around Rs 700 per kg. Sardines (Mathi), which were once sold at two kg for Rs 100, are now priced between Rs 100-120 per kg.

Mackerel (Ayala), previously available at Rs 100-120 per kg, has seen a price hike to Rs 200-240. Similarly, the price of Kera fish (Thamman) now ranges from Rs 220-260 per kg.

Shrimp prices have also soared, with white prawns and Indian prawns now priced at Rs 300 per kg—double what they were just two weeks ago. Other fish varieties have also seen price hikes: Cod is now priced at Rs 240, and Kothal fish at Rs 280 per kg.

Fish varieties such as Kingfish, Tuna, Cod, Kothal fish, and Mackerels are also imported from other states. Those imported from outside are cheaper than locally caught fish.

Baiju Thekkan, a wholesale fish distributor at Blangad Beach Fish Market, explained that the surge in fish prices can be attributed to several factors. The festive season, coupled with a shortage of fish and the fact that many workers have been away from fishing for more than a week, has contributed to this price hike, he explained.