Global demand and supply of pepper likely to remain balanced

01-Nov-2025 11:18 AM

Kochi. Although global pepper production declined slightly to around 520,000 tonnes in 2025 compared to 2024, the demand and supply of this important spice remain nearly balanced due to the presence of outstanding stocks and a slight decrease in consumption.

The International Pepper Community (IPC) states that there is sufficient stock to meet global demand and needs, but the outstanding stock may decline slightly.

The IPC estimates global pepper production to improve to 533,000 tonnes in 2026, which could improve the supply situation somewhat.

However, low outstanding stocks will prevent a significant increase in overall availability. India's production is steadily declining, which is a matter of serious concern, as India is the second largest producer of pepper in the world after Vietnam.

According to trade analysts, special attention needs to be paid to crop management in India and other major producing and exporting countries so that a good increase in the production of black pepper can be ensured in the coming time.

Weather conditions are still favorable for the crop, due to which there is a possibility of better production next year. Major producing and exporting countries of black pepper include Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Brazil, Sri Lanka and Malaysia etc.

According to critics, uncertain and irregular rainfall, fluctuations in temperature, high humidity and outbreak of insects and diseases are the major factors affecting the black pepper crop. As a result, sometimes the production decreases and sometimes it increases.