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India's spice exports declined 6% to $4.43 billion in FY2025-26 due to weaker demand for key products such as chilli and cumin, particularly from major buyers including China and Bangladesh. Export volumes also fell 4% to 17.34 lakh tonnes. Higher US tariffs and subdued demand from Asian markets further weighed on shipments. Chilli and cumin recorded the sharpest declines in both volume and value terms, while turmeric and mint products also witnessed lower exports. However, strong growth in cardamom, tamarind, coriander, ginger, and curry powder exports partially offset the overall decline in the country's spice export earnings.

Key Highlights

• India's spice exports declined 6% to $4.43 billion in FY2025-26.
• Weak demand for chilli and cumin significantly impacted overall exports.
• Chilli export value dropped 12%, while cumin exports fell 28%.
• Higher US tariffs and weaker Asian demand weighed on shipments.
• Cardamom, tamarind, ginger, and curry powder exports recorded strong growth.

India's spice export sector faced pressure during FY2025-26 as overseas shipments declined due to weaker global demand and tariff-related challenges. Total spice exports fell 6% to $4.43 billion compared to $4.72 billion in the previous financial year, while export volumes declined 4% to 17.34 lakh tonnes from 17.99 lakh tonnes.

The decline was largely driven by lower demand for chilli and cumin, two of India's most important export-oriented spice commodities. Chilli, which contributes the largest share to India's spice export basket, witnessed a 12% decline in export value to $1.17 billion as demand from major importers such as China and Bangladesh weakened. Export volumes of chilli also registered a decline during the year.

Cumin exports faced even greater pressure, with shipment volumes dropping 14% to 1.96 lakh tonnes. In value terms, cumin exports fell sharply by 28% to $524.22 million due to lower international demand and softer prices. Turmeric exports also recorded a modest decline, while spice oils, oleoresins, and mint products witnessed lower export earnings compared to the previous year.

Apart from weaker demand, exporters cited higher tariff barriers in the United States and subdued buying interest from several Asian markets as key factors affecting overall export performance. These developments created a challenging environment for Indian spice exporters throughout the financial year.

Despite the overall weakness, several spice categories delivered impressive growth. Small cardamom emerged as the standout performer, with export value and volume both surging 124%. Tamarind exports increased 42%, while large cardamom, ginger, coriander, and curry powder and paste exports also posted healthy gains, helping to partially offset losses in other segments.

Although India's spice exports declined in FY2025-26, strong growth in cardamom and value-added spice products highlights continued opportunities for diversification amid changing global demand patterns.

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