Pineapple cultivation in Goa, India, has traditionally centered on the local variety, known for its smaller size and higher sweetness. Grown mainly in intercropping systems with coconut in regions such as Ponda and Cuncolim, the local type takes 20–25 months to mature.
In Quepem, farmer Samir Audi has introduced the Giant Kew variety, sourced from Karnataka. Giant Kew pineapples are larger and juicier than the local variant, though slightly less sweet, and mature in 16–18 months. The shorter cycle has supported higher output. Goa's 2024/25 agricultural report recorded a combined pineapple yield of 5,462 tons across all varieties.
"Farmers in Goa have always earned a decent income from pineapple cultivation, but unlike other states where the crop is grown on acres of land, our yields were limited by issues like weed infestation," Audi told TOI. "By bringing in the Giant Kew variety and carefully weeding out weaker plants, I was able to standardise and improve my crop yield."
Other growers are also adopting the variety. Direct-to-consumer sales have become more attractive, with pineapples sold at US$1.44–1.80 (Rs 120–150) per fruit. In contrast, wholesale buyers typically pay 30–40% of retail value, leaving farmers with US$0.48–0.60 (Rs 40–50) per piece.
For consumers, this shift means access to larger fruit with different processing qualities. Local entrepreneurs are using Giant Kew pineapples for jams and other processed products. "Even if a buyer purchases 10 fruits, I make more profit than selling to vendors," said another farmer who switched to the Giant Kew variety.
Source: Times of India
