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Journalism of Courage
Spices exports have touched 1,57,435 tonnes valued at Rs 1457.84 crore for the ten-month period ended January 31, 2000. The figures show a 11 per cent decline in quantity while there has been a seven per cent rise in value compared to the same period in the previous year, according to Spices Board sources.
The pepper exports for the period recorded 35,000 tonnes valued at Rs 695.18 crore. This is against a target of 36,000 tonnes valued at Rs 612 crore. Pepper exports have exceeded the target in value while it is just 1000 tonnes short of the target in terms of quantity.
The active presence of Vietnam in the international market may come in the way of India achieving the target in quantity, it is feared. Indian pepper prices, though marginally down, are still highest in the global market. The exporters are also worried about the shortage of stocks which could be due to hoarding by farmers.
In the case of chillies, 42,200 tonnes valued at Rs 183.41 crore was exported during the period. As for ginger, 6200 tonnes valued at Rs 22.92 crore was exported. The exports of other important spices were as follows: Turmeric -17,750 tonnes valued at Rs 66 crore, coriander- 11,250 tonnes valued at Rs 23.45 crore, small cardamom- 335 tonnes valued at Rs 16.12 crore, large cardamom-750 tonnes valued at Rs 10.11 crore and oils and oleoresins- 2175 tonnes valued at Rs 217.21 crore.
The spices export target for the current year is 2,17,850 tonnes valued at Rs 1,748 crore. Though in terms of value this could be achieved, in quantity terms the exports are likely to fall behind. Apart from a shortfall in production, the rise in the value addition of spices is a reason for drop in quantity.
Last year India exported 2,31,389 tonnes worth Rs 1758 crore. The value added spices accounted for 37 per cent. This year too, the value addition is expected to be around that level.
