Black Pepper Production Expected to Decline for the Second Consecutive Year
16-Jan-2026 07:46 PM
Black Pepper Production Expected to Decline for the Second Consecutive Year
New Delhi: Due to unfavorable weather conditions, reports indicate a decline in black pepper production for the second consecutive year, not only in the producing state of Karnataka but also in Kerala. Currently, sporadic arrivals of new crops have begun in Kerala's markets, but arrivals in Karnataka's markets will begin in February. Karnataka contributes approximately 50 percent to the total black pepper production. Besides Karnataka, production also takes place in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Meghalaya. According to data released by the Spices Board, black pepper production in the country was 126,038 tons in 2023-24, which decreased to 77,533 tons in 2024-25. Traders believe that black pepper production in the country is likely to be around 55,000-58,000 tons during the current year 2025-26.
Price Trends
Sources say that due to lower imports and reports of a smaller new crop compared to last year, black pepper prices will not see a significant decline. Prices may fall in February due to increased supply pressure, but not significantly. Currently, the price of black pepper in the Cochin market is Rs. 700-720 per kg, while in Chikmagalur, Karnataka, the price is quoted at Rs. 685-690.
Imports
Due to the decline in domestic black pepper production during the last season, imports of black pepper increased. According to data released by the Spices Board, a record 48,085 tons of black pepper were imported during 2024-25, compared to 34,211 tons in 2023-24. Given the expected decline in production during the current season, it is anticipated that imports may increase further in 2025-26.
Exports
Although the quantity of black pepper exported decreased by 6 percent during the first seven months of the current season, the revenue increased by 22 percent due to higher prices in the international market. According to data released by the Spices Board, black pepper exports during April-October 2025 amounted to 11,332 tonnes, generating revenue of ₹693.90 crore. In comparison, black pepper exports during April-October 2024 totaled 12,113 tonnes, with revenue of ₹567.53 crore.