Cardamom imports declined 52.6 per cent during April-August this year. Only a meagre quantity of 45 tonnes was imported from Guatemala during the period, according to a press release issued by the Spices Board.
The reason for this significant fall in imports was the consistent decline in production in Guatemala and the strict vigil at major custom points through which cardamom is imported to India.
The production of cardamom in Guatemala during 2007 was 28,000 tonnes, which declined to 16,500 tonnes in 2009. However, a marginal increase in production was reported in 2010. Production in 2010 is estimated to be around 20,000 tonnes.
In 2007, Guatemala exported 27,961 tonnes of cardamom. In 2008, exports were 21,952 tonnes and 23,693 tonnes in 2009.
Prices dip on high arrivals
With the arrival of cardamom to various auction centres, prices declined sharply, to the utter dismay of the small and medium growers.
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The current average price is Rs 710 a kg which was Rs 1,350 a kg three months back. Best quality cardamom now fetches Rs 770 a kg.
Market sources expect further southward movement in prices as plucking of ripe cardamom is in full swing in Idukki district of Kerala. October-December is the peak harvesting season and as the season picks up, market experts expect prices to touch Rs 600 a kg.
Around 100,000, small and medium farmers have no other way but to sell their crop as stocking facilities are limited for them.
Because of its peculiar nature, cardamom cannot be stocked for long as the colour changes which eventually leads to degradation.
During off-season, the price of best quality cardamom touched Rs 1,700 a kg. According to farmers, only large scale growers could take the advantage of the off-season price increase as they have better storage facilities.
After December the market is expected to improve due to poor arrivals and low stock.