Kerala, where most cardamom comes from, is considered ideal for its cultivation because of its climate. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka also grow cardamom. It requires annual rainfall between 1500mm to 4000mm to thrive.
According to the sources, the secretary of the Kerala Cardamom Growers’ Association, the farmers couldn’t capitalize on higher crop prices due to their immediate financial needs. However, next season would largely depend on the rains, which have been favourable thus far.
A cardamom farmer expressed his hope for better prices after the arrival of the main crop. He said that a decrease in cardamom prices had been observed since February, but it is expected to remain rangebound. Additionally, the downpour hit the crop badly, leading to decreased production.
Guatemalan spice reduced the domestic demand
However, unfortunately, the export prospects of Indian cardamom were being threatened by Guatemala’s bumper production of the spice. Cardamom Growers’ Association Secretary expressed concern that Guatemalan cardamom was now available in North Indian markets, reducing the domestic demand for Indian cardamom. On top of that, it’s estimated that around 5,000 tonnes of Guatemalan cardamom might not be harvested this season as prices have fallen sharply and the cost of picking is too high.
Summing up, the future seems bright for India’s cardamom sector, with better rains on the horizon and hopes of a good harvest. But the unsteady pricing trends and stiff competition posed by other countries could make things challenging for farmers. However, despite these hurdles, the feisty cardamom farmer vows to weather the storm, relying on their dynamic spirit and sheer determination to claim their rightful place in the spice kingdom.
The Cardamom green 8 mm prices were Recorded at $23,99 per kg FOB.