Tribals of Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala have struck a deal with German co-operative Ecoland Herbs and Spices to export the organic pepper that they cultivate.
The first consignment of the eco-certified organic pepper- under Periyar Pepper brand- will leave the country on April 12.
Balan, a representative of the tribal settlement told FE that the Periyar cultivators stand to gain 30% mark-up over the market price of pepper in the country. Initially, the order is for five tonne only. Samples were tried out last month.
“The new initiative dispenses of commissions and middlemen and empowers tribals in international trade negotiations,” says Binoy Vishwom, Kerala forest minister.