Small cardamom prices witnessed a mild uptick on Thursday, with the market trading within a broad range of ₹2,400–₹2,550 per kg. Improved arrivals of better-quality produce helped support prices, while auction volumes remained healthy. Trading activity was largely concentrated at the Spices Park, Puttady, and nearby auction centres in Kerala. In the latest auctions, average prices were recorded at ₹2,479–₹2,489 per kg, marginally firmer compared with ₹2,465–₹2,493 per kg in the previous auction. Maximum prices rose from ₹3,285 per kg to ₹3,332 per kg, as buyers aggressively bid for premium lots amid strong demand for superior quality cardamom. Supply indicators showed a slight moderation. Arrivals stood at around 145,000 kg, marginally lower than 146,000 kg in the previous auction, while the number of lots offered declined from 552 to 506. Despite this, offtake improved from 98.4% to 98.9%, highlighting strong demand and active buyer participation at prevailing price levels. Grade-wise trends remained largely steady. Small-sized pods (below 7 mm) traded at ₹2,640–₹2,750 per kg, medium grades (7–8 mm) were priced in the range of ₹2,780–₹2,970 per kg, while premium bold pods (above 8 mm) commanded ₹3,000–₹3,300 per kg. Robust demand for bold and well-graded material in both domestic and export markets continues to support higher grades. Looking ahead, market participants expect small cardamom prices to remain range-bound in the near term, with ₹2,400–₹2,550 per kg emerging as a key trading zone. Further price direction will depend on the continuity of quality arrivals and the pace of export buying.