North Paravur records highest modal price at Rs 80,000 per quintal as premium-grade pepper commands strong demand

Black pepper prices in Kerala continued to trade on a firm note on May 8, 2026, supported by tight arrivals, quality-linked premiums, and steady demand from domestic buyers and exporters across key producing belts.

According to the latest market arrival data, premium-grade garbled black pepper at the North Paravur APMC emerged as the top-priced variety, with modal prices touching Rs 80,000 per quintal. Prices in the market ranged between Rs 75,000 and Rs 85,000 per quintal, reflecting strong demand for superior export-grade material despite relatively low arrivals of 1 metric tonne.

Market participants said premium-quality pepper continues to command a significant price advantage due to tighter availability of well-processed and high-density lots in the domestic market. Export-oriented buyers are selectively procuring higher-grade produce amid expectations of stable overseas demand and limited global supply expansion.

At the Kannur APMC, black pepper prices remained relatively stable, with modal prices reported at Rs 66,000 per quintal for the “Other” variety category. Arrivals stood at 6 metric tonnes, the highest among the reported Kerala mandis for the day, indicating comparatively better market inflows in the northern producing region.

Meanwhile, the Payyannur APMC recorded modal prices of Rs 63,000 per quintal for locally traded black pepper varieties, with arrivals of 2 metric tonnes. Traders noted that local-grade pepper continued to witness moderate buying activity from stockists and regional spice processors.

In Wayanad, the Pulpally APMC reported modal prices of Rs 69,500 per quintal for ungarbled black pepper, with arrivals of 2 metric tonnes. The relatively higher pricing in Wayanad compared with Kannur markets reflects stronger quality parameters and tighter supplies from interior plantation belts.

Analysts noted that while domestic consumption demand remains stable, export competitiveness continues to depend on global price movements, currency trends, and crop conditions in competing origins such as Vietnam and Brazil. However, India’s premium-quality Malabar pepper continues to enjoy niche demand in international markets due to its superior aroma and processing standards.

Market observers also pointed out that arrival volumes across Kerala mandis remain relatively modest, suggesting cautious selling behaviour among growers and traders. Any further tightening in arrivals or weather-related disruptions during the upcoming monsoon period could lend additional support to spot prices in the near term.