Spices exports at all-time high

Spices exports were at an all-time high in volume and value during 2010-11, with export earnings crossing $1.5 billion. The latest data from the Spices Board shows total exports increased 28 per cent in dollar terms, 23 per cent in rupee terms and five per cent in volume.

A total of 525,750 tonnes of spices and spice-based value-added products valued at Rs 6,840.7 crore ($1,502.85 million) were shipped as against 502,750 tonnes valued at Rs 5,560.50 crore ($1,173.75 million) in 2009-10.

The export has also exceeded the target set by the board in terms of quantity and value. Compared to the spices export target of 465,000 tonnes valued at Rs 5,100 crore ($1,125 million), the achievement is 113 per cent in terms of quantity, 134 per cent in value, both rupee and dollar terms.

The star performance was in the case of ginger as 15,750 tonnes valued at Rs 121.31 crore were shipped as against 5,500 tonnes valued at Rs 46.75 crore, registering a growth of 186 per cent in volume and 159 per cent in value.

A 61 per cent increase was registered in garlic exports as 17,300 tonnes valued at Rs 69.77 crore were exported. In value terms increase was 129 per cent

In 2010-11, export of chilli, fennel and other spices like asafoetida, tamarind, etc, have shown an increase, both in volume and value. Export of value added products, spice oils, oleoresins, curry powders and pastes also increased. In all, 15,250 tonnes of curry powder and pastes and 7,600 tonnes of spice oils and oleoresins were shipped during 2010-11.

However, in the case of pepper, cardamom (large), turmeric, nutmeg and mace and mint products, the increase was in terms of value only.

Spices like cardamom (small), coriander, cumin, celery, fenugreek and other seeds have decreased both in terms of value and volume.