Big cardamom has always held a special place in the world of spices. However, the recent twists and turns in the big cardamom industry have raised questions about its stability. With the arrival of the first crop in central producing states, concerns loom large due to unfavorable weather conditions, potentially leading to a significant decline in production. Yet, despite these hurdles, there is a glimmer of hope, dispelling the notion of a prolonged downturn in the world of big cardamom.
The initial waves of the big cardamom harvest have begun gracing the central producing states of our nation. However, this season has brought a surprise – a comparatively higher price point. It’s reported that this year’s opening price is around $1155 to $1166 per metric tonne, a substantial jump seen just a year ago. Typically, this harvest arrives at the end of August or the first fortnight of September, but nature had a different plan this time.
Unusually high temperatures during the crop’s growth period and unwelcome visits from stubborn weeds have cast a shadow over the prospects. Adding to the woes, the monsoon season has brought a meager 40-45 percent less rainfall than usual. This cocktail of adverse factors threatens to slash the first crop’s yield by a staggering 70 percent. The recent deluge in some areas has led to flooding, further endangering the crops. The second crop is also expected to be feeble, painting a bleak picture for the future.
Reports of crop damage have also emerged from Bhutan and Sikkim, adding to the challenges. This suggests that the domestic markets will experience the pressure of incoming big cardamom only after the second harvest, coinciding with the upcoming Diwali festival. Notably, even the second crop fell short of expectations by 35-40 percent, leading to irregular auctions this season.
Amidst these turbulent times, one thing remains certain: the big cardamom market is far from experiencing a long-lasting recession. It may face challenges, but its resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances make it a cherished and sought-after spice economy.
Import/Export Statistics
Please click to reach our marketplace