During April 2013-January 2014, jeera (cumin) exports exceeded 100,000 tonnes, owing to low prices and good quality. In 2012-13, these were 79,900 tonnes; in 2011-12 45,500 tonnes and 2010-11 32,500 tonnes.

Traders estimate in 2013-14 crop will rise 20 per cent on 2012-13, owing to good sowing and weather conditions.

“By the end of January, India has exported more than 100,000 tonnes and export demand is still there,” said Yogesh Mehta, director, Indian Spice and Foodstuff Exporters Association (ISFEA). This year, demand has increased from across the world, as production in Turkey and Syria has been low. Also, the Indian crop is cheaper. Mehta said in 2013-14 production would be 360,000 tonnes against 302,500 tonnes in 2012-13.

LOOKING UP
  • Jeera has been traded at Rs 1,720-2,150 a 20 kg through the month. At the market, daily arrivals are 26,000 bags  (55 kg each) against 5,000 a month ago
  • A trader at the Unjha market in Gujarat’s Mehsana district said the EU and the US were buying from India

A trader at the Unjha market in north Gujarat’s Mehsana district said, “The European Union (EU) and the US are buying from India. As a result, there is a rise in exports.” In two weeks, the new crop has starting arriving and it is expected the arrivals will increase gradually. Vice-Chairman Nimish Vora said, “Prices may decline further.”

Jeera has been traded at Rs 1,720-2,150 a 20 kg through the month. At the market, daily arrivals are 26,000 bags (55 kg each) compared with 5,000 a month ago. According to anAngel Commodities report, area in Gujarat was 455,000 hectares compared with 335,200 hectares last year. In Rajasthan, it was 390,000 hectares.