India’s spice export grew by 5% in terms of volume to 437,360 tonnes in the first half of FY 2016-17. This growth was boosted by large shipments of nutmeg, mace, cumin and garlic. The export rose to Rs 8,415.97 crore in value terms during the period, registering a 7% growth. The total value of exports was Rs 7,892.65 crore during the corresponding period last fiscal year. As per data released by Spice Board, chilli became the most exported spice for the April-September 2016 period with the shipment of 1,65,000 tonnes, fetching Rs 2,307.75 crore.
The exports of garlic contributed substantially to the overall growth during the period, after rising 132% in value terms and 55% in quantity. The exports of nutmeg and mace grew by 81% in quantity as compared to last year and saw a 69% increase in value.
Cumin exports rose by 49% to 68,600 tonnes, as compared to 45,894 tonnes during the same period in the previous year. Turmeric, apart from fennel and celery, also contributed significantly to the total spices exports during April-September 2016.