Chilli farmers across the region are facing a financial crisis as chilli prices plummet to unprecedented lows. With over a crore bags of chillies piling up in cold storage facilities, the additional burden of storage costs ranging from ₹150 to ₹300 per sack is worsening their economic woes.

Farmers, who have invested significant effort and resources to grow, dry, and prepare chillies for market, are now left without fair returns for their hard work. Many who faced losses last year due to low prices are now encountering an even more dire situation. This relentless decline in the value of what is often referred to as "red gold" has left the farming community demoralized and financially strained.

The primary culprit behind the price crash is the sharp decline in export demand. Key international markets, including China, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, which together account for 70% of chilli exports, have significantly reduced their imports. Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic crisis and a steep drop in Chinese demand have further aggravated the problem, leaving an oversupply in the domestic market.

As the situation persists, chilli farmers are calling for immediate intervention to stabilize prices and alleviate their growing financial hardships. Without adequate support, the future of chilli farming—a vital agricultural sector—remains uncertain.