Sub-standard imported arecanut being mixed with domestic quality produce threatening local market, says CAMPCO

Expressing serious concern, the Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Cooperative Limited (CAMPCO Ltd.), Mangaluru, said on Tuesday that it has received information that sub-standard imported arecanut is finding its way into the domestic market threatening the stability of local market.

Sub-standard arecanut is reportedly being mixed with locally produced arecanut before being sold. Such practices have the potential to adversely affect the quality, reputation and market value of Indian arecanut, its president S. R. Satishchandra said.

“CAMPCO has received information indicating that sub-standard imported arecanut is being locally blended with domestically produced arecanut and supplied through local trade channels. As a result, the market is gradually being flooded with mixed-quality produce, causing concern among genuine arecanut growers and consumers alike. This may push the arecanut market prices down to an unfavourable level,” he said.