Kerala’s coconut market is seeing a promising revival as copra prices soar to Rs 12,000 per quintal, surpassing the government’s support price of Rs 11,160. The significant increase of Rs 840 above the base price marks a positive turn for coconut farmers, who had been struggling with plummeting prices. In December 2021, copra was priced at Rs 10,000 per quintal, with a support price of Rs 10,590. However, by January 2022, prices had dropped sharply to Rs 7,000 per quintal, bringing considerable financial difficulties for farmers. The price of coconuts also saw a steady decline, dropping from Rs 29 per kg in early 2022 to Rs 22, despite a government-set support price of Rs 32 per kg.
While the government began procuring coconuts and copra to offer some relief, inefficiencies in the process meant farmers did not benefit fully from the support scheme. This year, only 102 tonnes of copra were procured in Kerala, despite having sufficient storage capacity. The current surge in prices is attributed to a drop in coconut production, which has affected copra and ball copra availability. The rising demand during North India’s upcoming festive season, including Durga Puja and Diwali, has also driven prices up.
Ball copra prices have seen a dramatic rise from Rs 9,000 in July to Rs 14,500, an increase of Rs 5,500 in just two months. Rajapur copra prices have exceeded Rs 16,500, marking the highest rate in two years. Additionally, dry coconut prices have surged to Rs 12,000. The price surge offers much-needed financial relief to farmers, who have faced tough times due to low market rates in previous years.
