Agriculture in Kerala is distinguished by its focus on cash crops rather than food crops. The state produces nearly 90% of India's natural rubber and is a dominant player in the production of spices like black pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves. Coconut cultivation is ubiquitous, deeply ingrained in the state's culture, economy, and cuisine (the very name "Kerala" translates to "Land of Coconuts").
Tea and coffee plantations dominate the highland regions of Munnar and Wayanad. While rice is the staple food, paddy cultivation has declined over the decades, though specialized regions like Kuttanad continue to practice unique below-sea-level farming.
Fisheries represent a massive agricultural sub-sector. Kerala's 590-kilometer coastline and inland water bodies support millions of fishermen and a highly lucrative export industry focusing on shrimp, squid, and various marine fish.