Guide to India’s Spice Export Industry and Key Market Facts

India is renowned worldwide for its rich variety of spices, not just for their flavors but also for their medicinal properties. Over the years, the country has established itself as the largest producer and exporter of spices, contributing significantly to the global spice market. This guide explores the key facts about India’s spice export industry, top products, and export trends.

Production of Spices in India

India produces around 11 million metric tons of spices annually, accounting for nearly 40% of global production. The major producing states include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra, Orissa, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Kerala. Among the spices, cumin, chili, ginger, and coriander contribute approximately 75% of the total production.

The country's diverse climate allows cultivation of a wide range of spices, including both common and exotic varieties. This diversity forms the backbone of India’s strong presence in the international spice trade.

Top Spices Export from India

India exports a broad spectrum of spices to meet global demand. The top spices export from India include:

• Pepper

• Cardamom

• Chilli

• Ginger

• Turmeric

• Coriander

• Celery

• Fennel

• Spice oils

• Oleoresins

• Curry powder

• Nutmeg & Mace

• Garlic

These spices are in high demand due to their unique aroma, taste, and quality. Countries worldwide rely on India for both raw spices and processed spice products.

Spices Export Data: 2023–24

In the fiscal year 2023–24, spices export from India reached a record value of USD 4.46 billion. The total quantity exported during this period was 1,539,692 metric tons. Among these, red chili emerged as the most exported spice, valued at INR 3,408 crore.

India’s spice trade involved 282,000 shipments managed by 6,674 exporters to 15,293 international buyers. The leading importers of Indian spices include the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, and Japan.

Key Spices HS Code

For international trade, each spice is identified by a specific spices HS code, ensuring proper classification and customs clearance. Some of the commonly used HS codes include:

• 0910 – Ginger, saffron, turmeric, bay leaves, curry, and other spices

• 091030 – Turmeric (Curcuma)

• 0909 – Badian, fennel, coriander, seeds of anise, cumin, or caraway

• 090931 – Seeds of cumin, neither crushed nor ground

• 0904 – Pepper of the genus piper; dried, crushed, or ground

• 090422 – Crushed or ground chili powder

These codes play a crucial role in tracking trade statistics and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.

Top 10 Spices Exporters in India

Several companies dominate the Indian spice export market. The top 10 spices exporters in India include:

1. Shri Sagas Connect Pvt Ltd

2. Nik May Exports LLP

3. VNS Food LLP

4. Ryushi Naik

5. Sai Shagun Food Industries Pvt Ltd

6. Vad Industries

7. Viral Spices

8. Pisum Food Services

9. Nani Agro Foods

10. Vacco Exports

These companies have built strong relationships with global buyers and play a pivotal role in promoting Indian spices worldwide.

Major Importing Countries

India’s spices reach nearly every corner of the world. The top 10 exporting countries that import spices from India include the United States, China, Bangladesh, the UAE, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East.

Among these, the United States remains the largest importer, followed closely by China, Bangladesh, and the UAE. This wide distribution emphasizes India’s role as a key player in the global spice market.

Historical Context: First Spice Exporter in India

India’s journey as a global spice exporter began centuries ago, with spices serving as one of the earliest commodities in international trade. Over time, the industry has evolved with modern infrastructure, quality standards, and export regulations, enabling India to maintain its leadership position in the spice market.

Comprehensive List of Spices Exported from India

For businesses and traders, it is essential to have a clear list of spices exported from India. This includes both commonly used culinary spices and specialty items. Some of the major exports are:

• Red chili

• Turmeric

• Cumin

• Coriander

• Black pepper

• Cardamom

• Ginger

• Fennel

• Fenugreek

• Nutmeg and mace

• Garlic

• Curry powder

• Spice oils and oleoresins

These products cater to diverse industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, highlighting their versatility.

Future Outlook of India’s Spice Export Industry

The spice export industry in India is growing steadily, with projections to reach $10 billion by 2030. Factors driving growth include increased global demand for natural and organic spices, expanding international markets, and continued investment in quality improvements and processing facilities.

With supportive policies and technological advancements, India is well-positioned to expand its global footprint and strengthen its role as a preferred supplier of high-quality spices.

Conclusion

India’s spice export industry remains a critical contributor to the national economy, combining traditional expertise with modern trade practices. The industry benefits from a wide variety of products, robust export data, and a strong presence in international markets. Businesses looking to engage in spice trade can gain valuable insights from Export Import Data platforms for informed decision-making.

For accurate and updated Indian spices export data, connecting with ExportImportData.in provides detailed information on exporters, HS codes, and shipment statistics, ensuring efficient planning for businesses entering this thriving market.