The Central Arecanut & Cocoa Marketing & Processing Cooperative Ltd. (CAMPCO) has cautioned arecanut growers against the growing presence of sub-standard imported arecanut in the domestic market. According to the cooperative, imported low-quality arecanut is reportedly being mixed with locally produced nuts and sold through trade channels, posing a serious threat to the quality, reputation and market value of Indian arecanut.
CAMPCO said the influx of mixed-quality produce could depress domestic market prices and adversely affect the livelihoods of lakhs of arecanut farmers who have consistently produced high-quality crops through sustainable farming practices. The cooperative expressed concern that such unfair trade practices could erode consumer confidence in Indian arecanut and undermine the sector’s long-standing quality standards.
Appealing to farmers to remain vigilant, CAMPCO advised growers to market their produce only through reliable and reputed agencies. It also urged them to avoid dealing with traders or intermediaries involved in blending imported sub-standard arecanut with domestic produce for commercial gains.
The cooperative emphasized that protecting the integrity of Indian arecanut requires the collective efforts of farmers, traders and other stakeholders. Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding growers’ interests, CAMPCO said it would continue working closely with the concerned authorities to curb unfair trade practices and ensure that only genuine, quality Indian arecanut reaches the market.
