The start of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season has led to a significant increase in the demand and price of black pepper in Kerala. Pilgrims from the Kambam region of Tamil Nadu, who pass through Idukki in Kerala, traditionally buy substantial quantities of black pepper as they return home.

This annual custom has resulted in a surge in the spice's sales, especially in areas like Kumivi, which are known for pepper trading.

This year, the number of pilgrims has risen, and they are purchasing black pepper in larger quantities, typically in half or one-kilo packets.

Traders are prepared for the increased demand, with estimates indicating that around 3,000 tons of black pepper are traded annually during this season.

Dealers in districts like Pathanamthitta, Kollam, and Kottayam report strong sales this year. The new harvest of black pepper has started, and many traders are mixing the freshly harvested stock with older, good-quality pepper to meet demand. This combination has been profitable as the availability of high-quality old stock is limited.

In the terminal market of Kochi, the price of black pepper last week was Rs. 667 per kilogram for the garbled variety and Rs. 647 per kilogram for the ungarbled type, with around 225 tonnes traded.

Trade analysts suggest that, as the pilgrimage season ends this week, the market will see a greater influx of the new pepper crop.

Dealers in the primary market are also engaging in direct inter-state trade, facilitated by intermediaries from the terminal market.