Onam rush sends veggie prices soaring, turns sugar bitter in Keralam
Vegetable prices in Kerala have surged ahead of the Onam festival due to supply shortages and increased export demand. While some staples have seen price drops, the cost of sugar has risen significantly, attributed to production declines and festive demand.
Why it matters
Food inflation during major cultural festivals significantly impacts household budgets and consumer sentiment in the region.
With only two days to go for Thiruvonam, vegetable prices continue to soar, even as the prices of essentials, including rice and coconut oil, have declined. The skyrocketing price of sugar, however, has come as a major shock to shoppers ahead of the festival rush in Keralam.
Among vegetables, the price of raw bananas, the most sought-after ingredient for making chips, has remained high for some time, with one kg costing around ₹65 in Kochi’s wholesale markets. Traders cite reduced supplies from key production centres, including Mettupalayam in Tamil Nadu, owing to poor rainfall as the primary reason for the price increase.
Prices of essential items, including rice and oil, have eased in Kochi markets. | Photo Credit: H. VIBHU
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in