KOCHI: The green banana leaf, an unavoidable part of Onasadya, has brought mixed fortunes to those in the export business in the state. Even as the demand for the leaves continues to be high in the Gulf countries, many small-time exporters failed to reap dividends because of the price difference between cargo sent via container shipment and flight.
Besides, non-payment of dues has led some others to opt out of exports.
But the season has been good to some, like K B Rafeeq of Kozhikode-based KBR Export and Import which exports vegetables and fruits. Compared to the previous year, the increased volume of orders for banana leaf this year has prompted the company to choose container shipment, he told TNIE.
“We sent a cargo of 14 tonnes in a 40-foot container. Last year, we did business worth Rs 15 lakh, and this season, the sales have gone up by Rs 20 lakh,” Rafeek said.
He said the cargo reaching the Dubai port are transported to other Gulf countries via road. As for banana leaves, Rafeek said, “This time, the leaves have been sourced from Maharashtra. Kerala doesn’t have a huge acreage dedicated to banana cultivation for the sole purpose of sourcing leaves.
Also, the cost is very high compared to that in Maharashtra, where a single leaf can be bought for Rs 4. In Kerala, it costs Rs 7 to 8. The leaves that reach Kerala are from Theni and Kambama in Tamil Nadu.”
At the same time, small-timers like Mohammed Tasleem, owner of AKS Exports in Kozhikode, saw a drop in the volume of orders.
“Why wouldn’t it be so? Big consignments via shipping routes are being preferred since the cost incurred as a result of charges is far less. For example, if the flight charge to send a cargo comes to around Rs 120 per kg, it is only around Rs 10 or 15 per kg via sea,” he said.
Another exporter, from Ernakulam, however, did not seek any orders after he failed to receive the dues from last year’s exports.
“Our main market was the UK. But since the payment for the last order remains pending, we decided not to take any orders this year,” said S Ajith, owner of AJ Exports and Imports.
Meanwhile, Kochi airport saw 707 tonnes of perishable goods being transported from August 27 to August 31.
The airport authorities estimate that, in the next three days, the volume will be 490 tonnes.
Hence, a cargo of a total of 1,197 tonnes of perishable goods — including vegetables and fruits, flowers, plantains, and banana leaves — will be transported to the Gulf and other destinations during the Onam season.