Mumbai, May 22 (Commodities Control): Small cardamom prices in major markets have continued to rise due to strong demand, with prices remaining above Rs 2,000 per kilogram. Local sources indicate that despite increased arrivals, the high demand has driven prices upward.
The average price of small cardamom ranged from Rs 2,065 to Rs 2,079 per kilogram, up from the previous session's range of Rs 1,965 to Rs 2,084 per kilogram. The highest reported price per kilogram reached Rs 2,855, an increase from Rs 2,821 in the previous session.
Arrivals remained robust, totaling 100,333 kilograms, slightly down from 103,502 kilograms in the previous session. Despite this, offtake totaled 95,063 kilograms, down from 102,233 kilograms, with the offtake rate reported at 94.7%, compared to 98.8% in the previous session, indicating continued strong demand.
Grade-specific rates remained stable following a weaker session, with prices for 7 mm grades ranging between Rs 1,720 and Rs 1,780 per kilogram, Rs 1,900 to Rs 1,980 per kilogram for grades 7-8 mm, and Rs 2,120 to Rs 2,250 per kilogram for grades 8 mm and up.
The Department of Commerce released EXIM data for March, showing a significant increase in exports, which totaled 1,126 MT, up 178% year-on-year. Imports, however, were down 26% year-on-year at 530 MT. For the cumulative period from April to March, exports were 7,576 MT, down 18.6% year-on-year, while imports were 8,956 MT, down 9.5% year-on-year.
(By CommoditiesControl Bureau: +91-9820130172)