Indian spices have been in demand since medieval times when European traders came to India in search of agricultural products that could enhance the quality and taste of their food. Today India is the largest exporter of flavors around the globe. According to the Indian Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), the country exported flavors worth $4.1 billion in the financial year 2021-22.
Where Does India Stand In Spices Production In The World?
India produces 75 of the 109 varieties of flavors listed by the International Organization for Standardization. The country consumes 80% of the production and exports only 15-20% of the flavors. The highest quality flavors grown in the country are used by both the food and medical industries. It has been proved that the medicinal value of these spices is immense.
For example:- turmeric is more popular as a medical herb for its medicinal value than as a flavor. It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it also improves brain function. Similarly, ginger is used to cure colds and coughs. These products not only enhance the taste but also improve overall health. The spices exporters in India are attracting countries with a growing interest in Ayurveda and natural remedies.
The world pharmaceutical industry is also dependent on India for the production and supply of medicinal herbs like turmeric and ginger to promote natural medicines rather than synthetic chemicals. Against this background, it would not be an exaggeration to say that India has a major role in the world market of spices. And the country is ready for the challenge.
Which States Are Leading In the Production of Spices?
Gujarat, Andhra, and Kerala are the three states that account for almost 50% of the total export of spices. But Gujarat registered a quicker and higher in comparison to southern states. In FY21, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana contributed to 60% of the chili export of India. Also, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra emerged as leading spices exporters in India in the same year.
In the global market, various spices brands in India are the biggest exporters of chili, cumin, and turmeric. In FY22, China and the US were the biggest exports of Indian brands of flavors and medicinal herbs. While China imports chili, cumin, and various mint products, the US imports consist of curry powders and pastes, spice oils, and oleoresins. Bangladesh imports turmeric and ginger from India, and Saudi Arabia and UAE rely on India for some core spices like small cardamom. These regions constitute over 50% of the export of spices from India.
What Is The Reason Behind The Current Uptick In Spice Demand?
The unbeatable quality of Indian products is undoubtedly the first reason for the high demand. However, some experts attribute the boom in Indian spices export to medicinal herbs as immunity boosters. At the same time, experts believe that the need will stabilize to some extent in the coming time.
In the global market, India competes with Spain, Mexico, and the Netherlands which are the largest exporter of fresh chili and is considered a substitute for dried chili in India. China is the leader in ginger export. In pepper, India is competing with Vietnam, Brazil, and Indonesia.
Final Thoughts
Spices manufacturers in India are doing a great job with the help of IBEF, the institution that promotes Indian brands of flavors and medicinal herbs in the global market. Also, you can read about What Is The History Of Indian Carpet Export?
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