This Onam season, the traditional banana leaf, an integral part of the Onasadya, has found a growing market in the Gulf countries. Exporters are witnessing higher demand, leading to a shift from air cargo to container shipments due to cost efficiency and increased order volumes.
Surge in Container Shipments
Kozhikode-based K B Rafeeq, owner of KBR Export and Import, reported a sharp rise in sales compared to last year. “We shipped 14 tonnes of banana leaves in a 40-foot container. Last year, our business was worth ₹15 lakh, but this year, sales increased by ₹20 lakh,” he said. The cargo, shipped to Dubai, is distributed across other Gulf nations by road.
Interestingly, this year’s leaves were sourced mainly from Maharashtra, where costs are lower. While a leaf costs ₹4 in Maharashtra, the price in Kerala stands at ₹7–8. Tamil Nadu’s Theni and Kambam regions also supply leaves to Kerala.
Challenges for Small Exporters
Not all exporters have benefited equally. Smaller firms, such as AKS Exports in Kozhikode, saw declining orders as buyers preferred bulk shipments via sea routes. Air cargo charges are nearly ₹120 per kg, compared to just ₹10–15 per kg by sea, making container consignments far more competitive.
Meanwhile, some exporters like AJ Exports in Ernakulam opted out of the business altogether due to pending payments from international buyers.
Kochi Airport Cargo Activity
Despite the preference for sea shipments, air freight continues to play a role. Kochi airport handled 707 tonnes of perishable goods between August 27 and 31, with an estimated additional 490 tonnes in the following days. In total, 1,197 tonnes of perishable cargo—including vegetables, fruits, flowers, plantains, and banana leaves—are expected to be exported during the Onam season.
