Business After tomato, the prices of cumin have started spoiling the taste of the kitchen in the country. In the last few days, a huge jump of 10 percent has been seen in the prices of cumin (Jeera Price Today). According to Kedia Advisory’s Jeera report, sowing of cumin is happening late in major producing states, due to which the cumin crisis is deepening across the world. And for this reason cumin is continuously becoming expensive.

At present the prices of cumin have crossed Rs 21,450 (Rs 214 per kg) (Jeera Rate Today) per quintal. It is expected to increase further. Experts believe that the price of cumin may reach 20600-20200 in the coming 1-2 months. But the possibility of reaching 21800-22100 on the upside is strong. If sowing reduces then there is a possibility of further rise to Rs 23800-25200.

According to Kedia Advisory, this time the weather got disturbed in Gujarat and Rajasthan, both the major producing states. There was more moisture in the fields. Soil dries late. Farmers could not start sowing. Sowing in Gujarat has now reached 40,012 hectares. This is 126% more than last year, but still lags behind normal. The situation is worse in Rajasthan. Sowing is slow due to moisture.

Estimate of decline of 20 lakh bags

On the other hand, the arrival in Unjha Mandi Jeera Bhav is very less. This market is the main trading hub of cumin. Low arrivals have further fueled the market. Production estimates are also raising concerns. This year, India’s cumin production is estimated to decline from 1.10 crore bags to only 90-92 lakh bags. This is a direct decline of 20 lakh bags. This is the biggest reason for shortage of supply in the market.

Cumin exports fell 17% in April-August

Even on the global front, the situation is not good. Weather and geopolitical tensions in countries such as Syria, Türkiye and Afghanistan have reduced the amount of cumin available for export. This global tightness has had a direct impact on the Indian market. Demand has returned slightly from Gulf countries and China, but buyers are very price sensitive. India’s cumin exports fell 17% in April-August. However, there was a slight recovery in August and exports increased by 3.24%. IPM grade cumin is being sold in the market at a premium of 20-25%. Its supply is less. This lack of premium quality has further increased the prices.

This year 46 lakh marriages are a big factor

On the demand side, the wedding season between November and February is a big factor. There will be 46 lakh marriages this year. The estimated expenditure will be around Rs 6.5 lakh crore. Wedding food depends on spices. Caterers buy 30-40% more cumin, turmeric, chilli and spice mix. This seasonal demand has given further support to the market.

Dark stores changed the demand for spices

In the last few years, quick commerce delivery companies like Blinkit, Zepto, Instamart have rapidly expanded their dark stores. The number of dark stores was around 150 in 2019, which has increased to more than 4000 by the year 2024. Instant delivery has increased sales of spices and ready-to-cook mixes. Branded masala demand will further increase with 6,000+ dark stores by 2026.

What is the impact on common houses?

Cost of cumin will have a direct impact on the kitchen budget. From pulses and rice to vegetables and mixed spices, cumin is used everywhere. FMCG companies can also increase packet prices if costs increase. Hotel and catering rates may also increase during the wedding season. Overall, delay in sowing, reduction in production, low arrivals, global crisis and wedding season, all these factors have led to a surge in the prices of cumin. Experts estimate that cumin prices will be expensive in the next few months and there is little possibility of their softening.