Kochi: With the arrival of the Ramzan season, pineapples have entered their peak sales period in Kerala. The daily sales, which typically average 150 tonnes, have now surged to 250 tonnes, driven by the festive demand and rising summer temperatures. As demand soars, the price of pineapples has also begun to rise.

Over the past week, the price of pineapples has increased by ₹10 per kg, bringing the wholesale price in Kochi, as set by the Vazakulam Pineapple Growers and Processors Association, to ₹53 per kg. In previous years, the price during this time remained below ₹40 per kg, making this the first time the price has crossed ₹50 in March.

The decline in production has further contributed to the price hike. Green pineapples and special green varieties are now selling for more than ₹50 per kg, and farmers predict further price increases in the coming days. According to the Merchants Association, the wholesale price of pineapples on Tuesday stood at ₹49 per kg, while in the retail market, prices currently range between ₹60 and ₹80 per kg, depending on the variety and availability.

To cater to the Ramzan market, farmers opted for early harvesting, a strategy expected to impact market supply in April, potentially driving prices even higher. Ernakulam district remains the largest producer, contributing nearly 60 percent of the state’s total pineapple yield.

The demand for ripe pineapples is especially high in North Indian cities, where consumers prefer the sweet, ripe pineapple fruit over green pineapples. Despite this strong domestic demand, exports remain low, farmers noted.

Rising production costs impacting farmers

While the high demand has led to better prices, farmers are facing increased production costs, which have cut into their profits. The cost of cultivating a single pineapple plant has now reached ₹45, creating financial strain for growers. However, there is some relief in seed prices, which have dropped from ₹18 to ₹10.

As farmers and traders navigate the volatile market conditions, the upcoming post-Ramzan supply gap and ongoing climate factors could further push prices upward, making this one of the most expensive pineapple seasons in recent years.