Mumbai, December 4 (CommoditiesControl): Pepper prices in domestic and international markets have surged, recovering from recent declines due to delays in the harvesting season. In major Indian markets such as Kerala and Karnataka, prices have risen by ₹1,800 per quintal over the past 7-8 sessions, buoyed by news of delayed panicle initiation and excess rains in key growing regions.
In Kerala, ungarbled pepper is now priced at ₹63,800 per quintal, while garbled pepper has reached ₹65,800 per quintal. The price of 500 GL pepper stands at ₹62,800. Karnataka's markets, including Kushalnagar and Chikamagalur, have reported prices ranging between ₹63,800 and ₹66,000 per quintal. Farmers in these regions are optimistic, citing favorable agricultural conditions that could lead to a successful harvest season despite the delays.
Vietnamese pepper markets have also shown a recovery, with prices rising by VND 1,000–1,500 per kilogram. Current prices range from VND 145,000 to VND 147,000, reflecting tight supply and delayed harvesting, which is now expected to start 15–20 days later than usual.
FOB prices in Brazil have inched up slightly, with ASTA-grade black pepper quoted at USD 6,225 per metric ton. Vietnam's FOB prices for 500 GL and 550 GL pepper are USD 6,200 and USD 6,500 per metric ton, respectively. Indonesia's ASTA-grade pepper stands at USD 6,666 per metric ton, while Malaysia's FOB prices are at MYR 8,400 per metric ton.
Harvesting in India and Vietnam is projected to begin in December and January, which may moderate the upward price trajectory. With adequate stock levels reported, a sharp rally in domestic prices appears unlikely. However, the combination of delayed harvests and global demand may continue to provide short-term support for pepper prices.
As the global pepper market adjusts to these developments, stakeholders remain cautious but hopeful for a balanced market recovery.
(CommoditiesControl Bureau; +91-9820130172)