Fennel sowing in Gujarat Dropped

Fennel sowing in Gujarat has witnessed a sharp 57% decline this season due to unappealing market prices. According to the latest data from the State Agriculture Department, fennel sowing remains 22.36% lower than the three-year average.

Major Drop in Sowing Across Gujarat

As of January 20, 2025, fennel has been sown in only 57,200 hectares across Gujarat, compared to 133,200 hectares last year. This reflects a sharp reduction of 76,000 hectares or 57.05% from the previous season. Additionally, when compared to the average of the last three years, fennel sowing has dropped from 73,677 hectares to 57,200 hectares, marking a decline of 22.36%.

Apart from Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh also produces fennel. While official data for UP is unavailable, business sources estimate that fennel sowing there has also dropped by about one-third.

Export Surge, Declining Domestic Prices

Despite lower sowing, fennel exports have surged due to more competitive domestic prices. Data from the Spices Board indicates that 59,830 tonnes of fennel, worth USD 67,40 million, were exported between April and October 2024. Compared to the same period last year, when 24,091 tonnes were exported, this marks an impressive 148% increase in quantity. Export revenue also grew 34%, reaching USD 67,40 million from the previous USD 50,50 million.

The primary reason for this export surge is the lower domestic price, driven by higher production in the last season. With increased international demand, traders were able to capitalize on exports at competitive rates.

When Can Prices Recover?

Although the market is currently sluggish, signs of a price rebound in the new season are emerging. Traders believe that the new fennel crop, like other major grocery commodities, could face delays due to unfavorable weather conditions during sowing.

Given the reduced sowing area and higher export demand, fennel prices could see an upward trend in the coming months. However, traders may have to wait a little longer before witnessing a substantial recovery.







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