Fennel Cultivation Expected to Decline

19-Dec-2025 07:13 PM

Prices Unlikely to Fall Significantly

New Delhi: Due to reduced export and local trade, fennel prices are currently quoted at lower levels. However, reports of a decline in cultivation in producing centers suggest that a significant drop in prices is unlikely in the near future. It is noteworthy that at the beginning of this month, the export price of fennel was quoted at Rs. 92/93 per kg, which is currently at Rs. 89/90. However, sources say that due to the anticipated decline in cultivation, stockists are not selling at the reduced prices. It is believed that prices may improve in the coming days if export demand picks up. However, a significant price increase is not expected yet, as new fennel is expected to arrive in Gujarat's markets in January.

It is worth noting that in 2024, fennel cultivation in the country was done on 1.97 lakh hectares, which decreased to 92,000 hectares in 2025.  Further decline in cultivation is expected during the current season as well. According to recently released data by the Gujarat Agriculture Department, fennel cultivation in Gujarat has been done on 35,506 hectares compared to 38,369 hectares last year. Sowing is in its final stages. Last year, the total area under fennel cultivation in Gujarat was 45,280 hectares. Reports also indicate a 10-15 percent reduction in area in Rajasthan this year. Last year, the total area under fennel cultivation in Rajasthan was 38,000 hectares.

Production

Considering the reports of reduced cultivation from the producing centers, it is anticipated that fennel production will also decline during 2026. It is noteworthy that during 2024, the country witnessed a record production of fennel seeds at 38/40 lakh bags (each bag weighing 55 kg), which decreased to 18/20 lakh bags in 2025.  Fennel is primarily produced in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Arrivals

Currently, arrivals of fennel seeds at the Unjha mandi in Gujarat, the major producing state, are running at 2500/3000 bags, with prices quoted at ₹70/85 per kg depending on the quality. In the Merta and Nagaur mandis of Rajasthan, arrivals are 300/400 bags, with prices quoted at ₹65/85 per kg depending on the quality. Sources indicate that new crop arrivals in Gujarat will begin in January, while in Rajasthan, they will start in March.

Exports Decline

After record exports of fennel seeds during 2024-25, exports have declined sharply in the first six months of 2025-26. A 65 percent decrease in quantity has been recorded, while revenue has also fallen by 53 percent. According to data released by the Spices Board, fennel exports during April-September 2025 were 18,351 tonnes, and the revenue earned from exports was ₹232.36 crore. In contrast, during April-September 2024, fennel exports were 53,187 tonnes, and the revenue earned was ₹493.57 crore. It is noteworthy that during 2024-25 (April-March), a record 76,586 tonnes of fennel seeds were exported, generating revenue of ₹765.44 crore.