Imports slip 8%

India's pepper imports slipped 8 per cent to 4,350 tonnes in April-June compared with the same period a year ago due to the global rise in pepper prices, according to a Spices Board official today.

Indian pepper prices, now at parity with countries like Vietnam, have a reduced economic advantage from imports, he said.

In 2005-06 (April-March), the average Indian price of $1,650 (Rs 66,825) a tonne was higher by $590 compared with Vietnam, a dealer pointed out.

However, the gap between the two countries has came down in 2006-07 (April-March) with rates in Vietnam rising to $2,055 (Rs 83,235) compared with India's $2,346 (Rs 95,022).

At present, the Indian ASTA grade pepper at $3,500-3,600 a tonne (Rs 141,758-145,808) was cheaper compared with Vietnam's price of $3,650 (Rs 147,833 rupees), he added.

The drop in pepper imports in 2006-07 (April-March) to 15,750 tonnes compared with 16,870 tonnes a year ago was a sign of processors and re-exporters in India meeting the bulk of their requirement from domestic sources, a dealer said.

India exported around 7,000 tonnes of pepper in April-June compared with 5,000 tonnes in the same period a year ago.