Here’s the news for Biryani lovers in Kerala. Now, you cannot find Biryani at cheaper rates as the prices of Kaima rice have doubled, reaching up to ₹230 per kg. This rice variety was available at ₹110-115 per kg a few months ago. The prices of popular brands such as Degon and Village are now nearly ₹215, while Triple Deer’s price is at ₹225 per kg. Not only this, the KTS brand has also increased from ₹110 to ₹220 per kg. According to retailers, rising prices are severely impacting business.
Kaima Rice Prices and Biryani costs are on the rise — Here’s Why
Notably, Kerala’s Kaima rice comes from West Bengal. Traders say the main reason behind the rising prices is a combination of climate-related crop damage and increased exports, which have led to a restricted domestic supply. Additionally, they mention that Kaima rice provides excellent taste and quality when aged for two years; much of the well-aged stock has already been exported, further driving up prices in the local market. As rice prices go up, hotels and food outlets in the state have also increased the prices of Biryani. Surprisingly, both chicken and beef Biryani now cost about 20 rupees more per plate on average, raising overall food costs for consumers.
What Do the Traders Say?
Certainly, Kerala is one of the largest consumers of Biryani rice in the country. Traders fear a deepening crisis as rice prices continue to rise daily. T Shahid, Manager of Golden Hyper Centre in Kalpetta, says, “Earlier, buying 30 tonnes of Biryani rice cost ₹30 lakh. Now, it costs ₹60 lakh.”
Furthermore, he mentions that there is some relief in prices until the next harvest. Additionally, traders are calling for immediate government intervention to curb inflation and stabilise the market.