Vegetable Prices Soar in Kerala; Up to 60% Increase in a Month

Kerala is experiencing a significant surge in vegetable prices, with an increase of 20 to 60 percent in just one month. Following the rise in coconut oil prices, this latest jump in vegetable costs has severely impacted the average Malayali household budget.

The primary reason cited for the price hike is a shortfall in production, largely attributed to adverse climate change. For instance, ginger, which was priced at INR 55 per kilogram in Ernakulam’s retail market on July 1, has now soared to INR 80-100 within a month. Garlic prices are also on the rise, trading at INR 120-140 per kilogram, with traders noting even higher prices for larger varieties.

Carrot prices have climbed by 20 percent to INR 80. Tomatoes, previously INR 40 per kilogram, now cost INR 60 within a month, with prices being even higher in rural areas. Conversely, drumsticks have seen a significant drop, with prices more than halved to INR 40 per kilogram. Onion and potato prices, however, remain relatively stable, trading at INR 30 and INR 45 per kilogram respectively in Ernakulam.

Kerala primarily sources its vegetables from the neighboring states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Despite some domestic production, the state heavily relies on these external sources. The pre-Onam and wedding season price surge has raised concerns, especially since locally produced vegetables are still delayed. This situation indicates a high likelihood of further price increases in the coming days.