💱 USD Support: All prices converted at today’s live rate (1 USD = ₹91.00) for our global
Dear Client,
Please find below the latest market intelligence for the Indian Spice sector as of 26 February 2026.
This professional briefing summarizes key price movements and market trends translated for your
convenience.
🌸 Saffron (Kesar) Market Softens
Wholesale prices for Kashmiri Saffron have adjusted to $2.42–$2.47 per gram (~$0.55
decrease) due to low domestic absorption. Iranian varieties remain steady at $2.09–$2.20 per
gram as market supplies increase with new arrivals.
🌶️ Red Chilli Arrivals Intensify
Firm demand from exporters is supporting prices despite heavy new crop arrivals in Guntur. Grade 334
is trading at $231–$253 per quintal, while high-heat Teja varieties range between
$214–$247 per quintal following an 8% increase in annual sector revenue.
🌿 Turmeric Strength Continues
Erode markets report robust sales with Gatta varieties firming at $166–$167 per
quintal. Demand for Salem Fali remains high at $178–$187 per quintal,
driven by strong export quality requirements and tight local inventories.
🫙 Cumin Under Pressure
Surging Chinese production (1.6M tonnes) has weighed on Indian exports. New arrivals in Unjha have
pushed regular grade prices down to $256–$262 per quintal, with market segments
showing an 11% volume decline compared to the previous period.
Additional updates: Coriander (Badami) is currently $122-125/quintal with potential for upside; Big
Cardamom remains steady at $18.13/kg; Poppy seeds hold firm at $16.48/kg due to currency fluctuations.
🔑 Key Takeaways for
Buyers
- Buy Signal: Fenugreek and nutmeg — prices are flat/declining with no
recovery expected. - Hold: Turmeric and red chilli — prices remain strong and are unlikely to
soften soon. - Caution: Cumin — declining exports and surging Chinese competition may push
prices lower. - Watch: Coriander — weak new crop reports could trigger a short-term spike.
- Stable: Black pepper, big cardamom, and poppy seeds holding firm at current
levels.