Cardamom growers in Vandanmedu, Idukki, a major production area in India, are concerned about the rising temperatures and lack of summer rains, which could harm the upcoming cardamom crop. The region has experienced temperatures rising to 34 degrees Celsius, above the usual March average of 30 degrees. The absence of expected March showers has heightened worries about plant survival and yield, as cardamom cultivation heavily depends on timely rainfall for irrigation and healthy growth. The current water scarcity due to insufficient rains is also troubling the growers, posing a threat to the cardamom plants' survival and the forthcoming harvest.
The domestic cardamom market remains stable with prices around ₹1,500 per kg, bolstered by strong demand during the Holi festival and Ramzan season, despite the potential climatic threats. However, there is concern among planters over the Spices Board's new policy requiring a full bank guarantee for auctioned quantities, which has led to calls for better stakeholder consultation before implementation. Internationally, a significant drop in Guatemala's cardamom production could position Indian cardamom favorably in the global market, aligning domestic prices with those in Guatemala and potentially enhancing export opportunities, although current shipping challenges related to the Red Sea crisis are impacting export dynamics.
The global cardamom market is closely watching the weather patterns, especially the El Niño phenomenon, which contributes to the high temperatures and could exacerbate the lack of rain in the cardamom-growing regions. Continued dry conditions could lead to decreased cardamom production in the next season, potentially driving prices higher. Growers are hopeful for a recovery in prices if export demand increases and are keenly awaiting rainfall to mitigate the adverse effects of the heat on the crop.