Pineapple growers in Udupi hit by heat, weak demand and export disruption

Udupi, : Pineapple farmers in Udupi district are facing mounting losses as a combination of extreme summer heat, falling market demand, and disruptions in exports to Middle Eastern countries hit their livelihoods.

Growers across regions such as Kundapura, Byndoor and Karkala have increasingly shifted to pineapple cultivation in recent years due to its profitability. However, this season has turned challenging, with farmers reporting a sharp decline in yield due to intense heat conditions.

Heat impacts yield
According to farmers, the unusually high temperatures have slowed the growth of pineapple crops, directly affecting productivity. “The crop has not developed properly this season, leading to lower yields,” growers said.

Demand slump worsens crisis
While pineapple is typically harvested throughout the year and sees peak demand during festive seasons such as Ramzan, the current market scenario has turned unfavourable. The arrival of seasonal fruits like mangoes, jackfruit and watermelon has significantly reduced demand for pineapples in local markets.

Farmers said that prices have dropped sharply. Currently, pineapples are being sold at around ₹26–₹27 per kg, compared to ₹32–₹35 per kg just a few months ago. “If the price falls below ₹32 per kg, farmers incur losses due to high labour and maintenance costs,” said Frederick, a pineapple grower from the region.

Export disruptions add to woes
The situation has worsened due to stalled exports to Middle Eastern countries. Traders from states like Maharashtra, Gujarat and Delhi usually procure pineapples from Udupi farmers, process them into products such as jam and dried fruit, and export them abroad.

However, ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have disrupted export channels, leading to a sharp drop in demand. “Because of the war situation, exports have come to a halt, and this has directly impacted demand for pineapples,” Frederick explained.

Labour shortage emerges
Adding to the crisis, farmers are also grappling with a shortage of labour. Pineapple cultivation requires significant manpower, and growers depend heavily on workers from states like Assam and West Bengal. Many of these workers had returned home to vote in elections and are yet to return, causing delays in harvesting and farm operations.

Risk of crop loss
Farmers warn that if harvesting is not done on time, the fruits may rot on the plants, leading to further losses. Pineapples are often harvested before full ripening for transport to distant markets, as fully ripe fruits have a shorter shelf life.

Most farmers in the district cultivate the ‘Rani’ variety, known for its longer storage capability despite having thorny plants.

With demand remaining weak and costs rising, growers are urging authorities to step in with support measures to stabilise prices and revive export channels.