Weather Damage and Low Stock Drive Coriander Prices Up
Coriander prices have seen a sharp rise in recent days, mainly due to lower arrivals of the new crop, concerns over reduced production caused by adverse weather, and strong demand from spice companies and exporters. In key markets of Rajasthan and Gujarat, limited stock and a shortage of high-quality produce have pushed prices to elevated levels. Traders believe prices may increase further by ₹5–10 per kg in the near term. In the past week alone, wholesale prices have surged by ₹500 to ₹1,000 per quintal, with Badami quality reaching around ₹13,800 to ₹14,000 per quintal. Major mandis such as Ramganj, Baran, and Guna are also witnessing firm price trends. Tight supply conditions combined with active buying have kept the market sentiment bullish. This year, untimely rains, hailstorms, and unfavorable weather in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have damaged crops, impacting overall production. Additionally, farmers reduced coriander sowing this season, leading to an estimated 20% drop in acreage in key producing states. Hoarding by stockists has further tightened supply in the market. Carry-forward stock is significantly lower compared to last year, declining from 3.2–3.5 million bags to around 2.0–2.2 million bags this year. While India’s annual consumption is about 14–15 million bags, total availability (production plus old stock) is estimated at only 11–11.5 million bags. This supply-demand gap, along with uncertainty in global supply, has kept prices firm, supported further by bullish trends in the futures market.