Dear Client,
Please find below the latest market updates for the Indian Spice sector as of
29 May 2026.
The market opened with declines in Coriander, Cumin, and Fennel prices, while Large Cardamom experienced a sharp upward movement.
🌿 Coriander: Production Concerns Point to Price Hike
Coriander arrivals in producing regions have decreased again, leading to stable wholesale prices with an expectation of a slight increase. This season saw reduced sowing due to unappealing prices last year and unfavorable weather, signaling lower production. Recent mandi arrivals have shown some price upticks, and export figures for the current fiscal year are significantly higher in value despite lower tonnage compared to the previous year, suggesting robust demand.
📉 Cumin: Weak Demand & Imports Lead to Softness
Cumin arrivals were significantly reduced in Unjha mandi due to the Bakrid festival. Despite some buyer support, wholesale prices softened, declining by 100 rupees. Futures also reflected this bearish sentiment with a notable drop. Overall demand remains weak, and the market anticipates no significant price fluctuations in the immediate future, pointing towards continued stability or slight softness.
🌶️ Red Chilli: Supply Improves, Prices Unlikely to Rise
Recent improvements in supply are impacting Red Chilli sales, causing a softening of prices. Despite holidays in the Guntur region, new crops are arriving from Bareilly, further influencing market dynamics. Consequently, there appears to be no immediate prospect for an increase in Red Chilli prices in the coming days, suggesting a stable to soft outlook.
🌸 Cloves: Heat Dampens Demand, Stability Expected
The severe heatwave across the country is impacting the off-take of cloves and other kirana items, leading to stagnant prices. The market has remained stable at its previous closing levels. Despite the rupee’s weakness against the US dollar influencing market sentiment, a prolonged downturn in clove prices is not anticipated in the immediate future.
🍀 Green Cardamom: Despite Slow Sales, No Price Decline Expected
Despite the ongoing heat and sluggish sales, Small Cardamom prices are holding steady at previous levels. Recent auction data shows lower arrivals but an increase in the average auction price, driven by robust buyer interest. This indicates underlying market strength, and there are no immediate fears of a price decline in the short term.
⚫ Black Pepper: Heat Slows Trade, Imports to Maintain Stability
Trade activities for Black Pepper are sluggish due to the intense heat. Prices remain stable at their previous closing levels. The market in Kochi was closed for Bakrid, further impacting activity. With imports from Sri Lanka expected to commence in July, there is no anticipation of a price increase in the near future, suggesting a stable to soft market.
🟠 Dried Ginger: Weak Demand, Stable Prices Ahead
Despite relatively high wholesale prices for fresh ginger, the market for dried ginger is experiencing sluggish sales. Prices have remained stable at their previous levels. The Kochi market was closed for Bakrid, and overall market sentiment is being affected by the prevailing heat. Consequently, no immediate increase in dried ginger prices is expected in the coming days.
🌾 Fenugreek Seeds: Monsoon Arrival, Slow Sales, No Price Hike
Despite the onset of the monsoon season, sales of Fenugreek Seeds remain sluggish. Prices have held steady at their previous levels. The monsoon has reached Kerala and is gradually advancing to other parts of the country, which is currently influencing market sentiment. As a result, there is no immediate expectation for an increase in Fenugreek Seed prices in the coming days.
🔑 Key Takeaways
for Buyers
- Strategic Accumulation for Coriander: With declining arrivals, reduced sowing, and strong export value, Coriander is poised for an upward price trend. Consider accumulating stock strategically to capitalize on potential gains.
- Maintain Caution on Chilli, Cumin & Ginger: Improved supply for Red Chilli, weak demand for Cumin, and sluggish demand for Dried Ginger due to heat suggest stable to soft markets. Avoid aggressive long positions and consider maintaining leaner inventories.
- Monitor Cardamom & Clove Dynamics: Green Cardamom shows resilience despite slow sales, while Cloves are stable but demand is affected by heat. Closely monitor demand shifts and weather patterns for future positioning.
- Factor in Black Pepper Imports: Anticipated imports of Black Pepper from Sri Lanka in July are likely to cap any potential price increases, ensuring stability. Factor these expected arrivals into your procurement strategy.
- Flat Outlook for Fenugreek Seeds: Despite the monsoon’s arrival, Fenugreek Seeds continue to see sluggish sales. Expect sustained price stability without immediate signs of an upward price correction.