Beef price may jump by up to ₹100 per kg from July 15 in Kerala; Fish prices also up

Kozhikode: Kerala consumers could soon face another increase in food expenses, with beef prices set to rise from July 15. Meat traders say the retail price of beef may increase by as much as ₹100 per kilogram in several parts of the state, adding to the pressure already caused by soaring fish and vegetable prices.

The decision was taken at a district general body meeting of the All Kerala Meat Merchants Association in Kozhikode. Following the revision, beef with bone is expected to be sold at around ₹400 per kg, while boneless beef could touch ₹460 per kg.

At present, beef with bone is priced at approximately ₹340 per kg and boneless beef at around ₹360 per kg in many markets. The revised rates are expected to come into effect from July 15.

According to meat traders, the sharp rise in cattle prices in Kerala and neighbouring states has made procurement increasingly expensive. Traders argue that higher livestock costs have left them with little option but to pass on part of the burden to consumers.

Industry representatives also point to a decline in earnings from by-products such as hides (Leather), bones and tallow, which traditionally help offset operational costs in the meat trade. The fall in revenue from these products has further squeezed margins, prompting the latest price revision.

Fish prices continue to climb during trawling ban

The proposed beef price hike comes at a time when seafood prices are already climbing across Kerala. The annual trawling ban has reduced fish landings, while persistent monsoon conditions have limited fishing activity by small boats in several coastal regions.

With supply tightening and demand remaining steady, fish prices have increased noticeably in major markets.

Kozhikode market fish prices before and after trawling ban

Fish variety	Earlier price (₹/kg)	Current price (₹/kg)
Sardine (Mathi)	160	200
Seer Fish (Ayakoora)	900-1000	1300-1400
Small Prawns	150	250
Large Prawns	200	400
Indian mackerel (Ayala)	250	280
Tuna (Choora)	150-160	200

Note: Prices are based on rates reported from the Kozhikode Central Market and may vary across local markets and districts.

Consumers are already grappling with higher food costs during the monsoon season and the latest revision is likely to add pressure on daily spending.