Fennel Cultivation Down Compared to Last Year

09-Jan-2026 06:41 PM

New Delhi. Based on sowing reports from the major producing states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, it is anticipated that fennel production will also decrease in 2026.  It is noteworthy that the area under fennel cultivation in the country was 1.97 lakh hectares in 2024, which decreased to 95/98 thousand hectares in 2025. According to data recently released by the Gujarat Agriculture Department, fennel sowing had been completed on 48,046 hectares by December 5th, compared to 56,106 hectares during the same period last year. In addition, reports indicate that sowing in Rajasthan is also down by 20-25 percent this year.

Production Estimates

According to informed sources, fennel production in the country is projected to be 15-17 lakh bags in 2026, compared to 18-20 lakh bags in 2025.  In 2024, a record production of 38-40 lakh bags (each bag weighing 55 kg) was recorded.

Prices

Due to reports of weak sowing in the producing centers, fennel prices are currently firm. Over the past fortnight, fennel prices in the markets have increased by Rs. 200-300 per quintal. The export price, which was Rs. 89-91 per kg in November, is currently being quoted at Rs. 95-96. Sources say that a significant increase in current prices is unlikely in the near future, as the arrival of new fennel crops will begin in the markets of the major producing state of Gujarat by the end of this month. However, prices will definitely rise after the pressure of arrivals subsides. Currently, average quality fennel is being quoted at Rs. 80-120 per kg in the wholesale markets of the producing centers.

Exports decline

After record fennel exports during 2024-25, fennel exports in the first seven months of 2025-26 have decreased by 65 percent in terms of quantity, while revenue has declined by 53 percent. According to data released by the Spices Board, 20,850 tonnes of fennel were exported during April-October 2025, generating revenue of Rs. 263.89 crore. In comparison, exports during April-October 2024 were 59,831 tonnes, with revenue of Rs. 561.74 crore. Total fennel exports during 2024-25 were 76,586 tonnes, generating revenue of Rs. 765.44 crore.