India's whole cardamom exports jumped to $436.8 million in fiscal year 2025-26, up from $131.9 million two years ago. The rise in export value and volumes reflects strong international demand, especially from the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This growth highlights the increasing global preference for Indian spice quality.
India has seen a sharp rise in its whole cardamom exports, with total export value reaching $436.8 million during the 2025-26 fiscal year. This is a significant increase from the $131.9 million recorded in the 2023-24 period, according to data from the Commerce Ministry. The volume of exports also grew substantially, more than doubling to 16,399 tonnes over the same two-year window.
Global Demand and Key Markets
The growth in export value is driven by consistent demand from international buyers who prioritize the aroma and purity of Indian spices. Among the major importing nations, the United Arab Emirates leads the list with imports valued at $135.22 million. Saudi Arabia follows with $125.16 million, while Bangladesh accounts for $47.71 million. Other important destinations for Indian cardamom include Kuwait, Iraq, and Malaysia, with steady interest noted from markets in North America and Europe.
Supply Dynamics in Indian States
India produces two main types of cardamom to meet both domestic and international needs. Small cardamom is primarily cultivated in the southern Western Ghats, with Kerala being the largest production hub, contributing between 56% and 58% of the total supply. Within Kerala, districts such as Idukki, Wayanad, and Palakkad are the main centers of cultivation, supported by additional production from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Large cardamom production is concentrated in northeastern states like Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
Factors for Investors to Monitor
While the increase in export value is positive for the spice sector, investors should consider that agricultural exports are often sensitive to weather conditions, crop yields, and global price fluctuations. The consistent export performance depends heavily on maintaining high quality standards and effectively managing supply chains from the Western Ghats and northeastern regions to global ports. Future growth in this segment will likely depend on sustaining these demand levels in key Middle Eastern markets and the ability of producers to navigate potential price volatility that can influence total export revenue in the coming seasons.