India has seen a significant boost in cumin exports, with a 73% increase recorded during the first seven months of the 2024-25 cumin marketing year (March to September). According to the Federation of Indian Spice Stakeholders (FISS), the country exported approximately 166,132 tonnes of cumin seeds during this period, compared to 95,951 tonnes in the same months of the previous year.

In addition, data from the Spices Board shows that India’s cumin exports reached over 111,000 tonnes, valued at approximately $369 million, between April and August 2024. This represents a notable increase from the 69,000 tonnes valued at $292 million in the same period in 2023.

During the July to September period, exports surged by 128%, reaching 52,022 tonnes, compared to just 22,830 tonnes during the same months in 2023-24.

Key Drivers Behind Export Growth

This impressive growth in cumin exports has been largely driven by increased demand from neighboring countries, particularly Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, providing a substantial boost to India’s spice industry. Indian cumin’s growing recognition on the global stage has helped strengthen its position in international markets, opening the door to further growth opportunities.

Historically, the Middle East—especially Syria, Iran, and Turkey—has been a major producer of cumin. However, ongoing political instability in these countries has led to a decline in production, prompting global markets to rely more heavily on Indian cumin.

Moreover, the price of cumin has decreased this year to INR 25,000 per 100 kg, a sharp contrast to the record high of INR 60,000 per 100 kg in the previous year.

Impact on Domestic Market

Despite the surge in exports, domestic wholesale prices for cumin in India have remained relatively stable. However, local prices are showing signs of an upward trend due to delays in the sowing of the new cumin crop in key producing states like Gujarat and Rajasthan. As of now, the price for different varieties of cumin, such as Normal and Machine Clone, ranges between $3.09 and $3.53 per kg.

Supply Chain Challenges Amid High Temperatures

The sowing season for cumin has faced delays due to unusually high daytime temperatures, exceeding the ideal growing conditions. In Gujarat, where temperatures have reached approximately 35-37°C, many farmers have delayed planting until temperatures drop to more favorable levels. Farmers have prepared their fields, but they are holding off on sowing in anticipation of cooler weather, which is necessary to meet rising market demand.

Local Market Trends

In major cumin markets such as Unjha Mandi, prices have fluctuated in response to varying supply levels. For instance, when arrivals peaked at around 14,000-15,000 sacks, there was a brief dip in prices, but the market quickly recovered as buying interest surged. Prices for local varieties such as GL Gulab Jeera and Ganesh Jeera have increased to around $0.30 per kg, reflecting the sensitivity of domestic prices to both export demand and local supply conditions.

Although European demand has been relatively subdued, the surge in exports to South Asian countries indicates robust market activity for Indian cumin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India’s cumin export industry is experiencing strong growth, driven by rising demand from neighboring countries. While domestic prices remain firm amid supply challenges and delayed sowing, the potential for further expansion in the cumin sector remains promising. The future trajectory of exports will depend heavily on weather conditions and effective crop management, as farmers work to meet the increasing demand.

By staying responsive to market trends and weather conditions, Indian cumin producers can continue to strengthen their position in the global market.

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Source: Commodity Board & Time Of India