Limited fluctuations in cumin market due to balance of demand and supply

14-May-2025 05:35 PM

Rajkot. The supply and availability of cumin in major producing states like Gujarat and Rajasthan is currently below normal levels, while demand and buying activity are also not as strong as expected.

As a result, the cumin market is witnessing limited price fluctuations. According to trade analysts, arrivals in Gujarat’s key Unjha market increased from 7-8 thousand bags to 15-16 thousand bags. However, due to buying interest from Disawari traders and exporters, prices registered a slight rise instead of softening.

Importers from Bangladesh are showing some interest in purchasing cumin, and there is a possibility that other importing countries, including China, may also begin buying soon.

India may find a good opportunity to boost exports before the new cumin crop arrives in countries like Turkey, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan, where harvesting typically begins around June-July.

At present, Indian cumin is being offered at attractive and competitive prices in the global market, which may support export demand.

Prices in the domestic market are showing minor fluctuations amid normal arrivals and trading activity. In the Unjha mandi, cumin was traded with a variation of Rs 100-200 per quintal.

The price on the previous day ranged between Rs 4450 and Rs 4520 per 20 kg. During the 2024-25 season, the sowing area for cumin declined in both Gujarat and Rajasthan compared to the previous year, leading to lower overall production.

The 2023-24 season had been exceptional, as prices had reached an all-time high, significantly increasing farmers' interest in cultivating cumin. Since then, prices have returned to more typical levels.

Traders are now awaiting strong demand from China. Only with increased international buying, especially from China, is a notable rise in cumin prices expected in the domestic market.