Cumin Market Faces Pressure as Demand Declines in Unjha
Cumin Prices Under Pressure Due to Weak Demand
The cumin market in Unjha is the largest cumin market in India. It is currently under pressure due to a significant lack of demand. Traders report that both domestic and international buyers have shown little interest, leading to a stagnation in prices. In the local wholesale market, cumin prices remained stable at $3,10 to $3,16 per kg. The lack of buying activity from stockists has contributed to the sluggish market, with prices having already fallen by $0,18 to $0,20 per kg in recent weeks.Traders Express Concern Over Continued Sluggishness
Jatin Patel, a trader based in Unjha Mandi, noted that around 5,000 to 7,000 bags of cumin arrived in the market today. Despite the earlier, the market has remained slow, with prices stabilizing approximately at $2,95 to $2,98 per kg, depending on quality. This lack of movement has left traders concerned. Especially with the upcoming sowing season for new cumin crops in Rajasthan and Gujarat. As farmers begin to sell off their current stocks, the arrival of cumin in the market has increased from 3,000 to 4,000 bags to 6,000 to 8,000 bags, further pressuring prices.Global Cumin Production and Its Influence on Prices
Dixit Patel, an another Unjha-based trader has highlighted that the new cumin crop in other major producing countries like Türkiye and Syria has nearly ended. These countries produce only about 35,000 to 40,000 tons of cumin annually, and their recent harvests are already depleted. Despite this, the expected increase in activity from local stockists and Disavars has not materialized. Leaving the market in a state of uncertainty. The lack of buyer activity, even at reduced prices, is unusual and has traders puzzled.Cumin Exports Rise Amidst Falling Prices, But Uncertainty Looms
Interestingly, the decline in cumin prices has positively impacted exports. According to data from the Spices Board, India exported 61,463.38 tonnes of cumin worth $193 million in the first two months of the 2024-25 financial year, compared to 42,988.50 tonnes worth $180 million during the same period last year. However, traders believe that until the buying interest from stockists, Disavars, and exporters increases, cumin prices may continue to face downward pressure.Challenging period with weak demand
The cumin market in Unjha is currently experiencing a challenging period due to weak demand both domestically and internationally. Despite increased supply, prices have remained under pressure, and traders are concerned about the lack of buyer activity. While exports have seen an uptick due to lower prices. The future of the market remains uncertain as it awaits a revival in demand.