Pineapple growers in Ernakulam face crisis as prices plunge
Pineapple growers in Ernakulam are experiencing a crisis due to plummeting prices, which have dropped to ₹10 per kilogram despite a market rate of ₹18. Factors such as the West Asia crisis, labor shortages, and changing climatic conditions have disrupted production and led to a surplus. Farmers are advised to focus on maintaining existing farms rather than expanding, as the market is expected to improve in the coming weeks.
- ▪Pineapple prices in Ernakulam have fallen to ₹10 per kilogram, significantly impacting growers.
- ▪The decline in prices is attributed to a combination of geopolitical issues, labor shortages, and climate changes.
- ▪Farmers are encouraged to maintain their current farms and rely on ratoon crops to avoid additional expenses.
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Pineapple growers in the district are facing a severe crisis this year, with the price of the fruit nosediving to a low of ₹18 per kilogram. According to farmers, while the market rate is ₹18, the sale price has dipped to ₹10 per kilogram.“Even then, no one wants it,” said James George, president of the All Kerala Pineapple Farmers Association. While the price of first-grade green pineapple has climbed to ₹40 per kilogram, that of ripe fruit has plunged sharply over the past two months.According to farmers, a combination of factors played a significant role in disrupting the pineapple market.“The West Asia crisis, which led to a cooking gas shortage and the shutting down of restaurants and shops, coupled with the labour shortage caused by the exodus of migrant labourers, played a key…
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