Jeera prices in India rose by 3.56% to ₹21,805 due to delayed crop start in Gujarat and postponed sowing in key states. However, demand remains sluggish, and export orders are fulfilled from existing stocks. Farmers hold around 20 lakh bags of jeera, with only 3-4 lakh bags expected to be traded by the season’s end.
India’s cumin seed production increased to 8.6 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, boosted by improved crop conditions and a larger sowing area. Indian cumin is the cheapest globally, priced at $3,050 per tonne, while Chinese cumin is $200-$250 higher.
Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven strong demand, particularly from Europe and other regions ahead of the festive season. Jeera exports surged 74.04% YoY to 1,47,006.20 tonnes during April-November 2024, compared to 84,467.16 tonnes last year.