India is the largest exporter of spices in the world. It
exports more than 0.40 million tons of spices annually and account for
around 48% of the global export volume and 44% of the export value.The
major destination of Indian spice exports is USA followed by EU, Malaysia,
China, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Japan and Middle East Countries.
Spices exports have registered substantial growth during
the last one-decade, registering an annual average growth rate of 11.1%
in value terms. During the year 2007-08, the export earnings from spices
have surpassed 1 billion $ mark for the first time and registered an all
time high both in terms of quantity and value in spice exports. During
same period, the export of spices from India has been 444,250 tonnes valued
MLN US $ 1101.80 million, registering an increase of 39% in value over
2006-07. Presently, India act as the monopoly supplier of spice oils and
oleoresins the world over. In case of curry powders, spice powders, spice
mixtures and spices in consumer packs, India is in a formidable position.
The consistent effort of the Board has improved the share of the value
added products in the export basket to 60%.
(Source: DGCI&S, CALCUTTA/ SHIPPING BILLS/
EXPORTERS' RETURNS)
With the support of the Spices Board, exporters have also
established adequate infrastructure for improving quality on a sustained
basis. Quality improvement and technological upgradation are taken up
by exporters as an on-going programme. These developments are in tune
with the changing levels of market acceptance. Other areas focused upon
by the Board are export promotion in identified markets; interaction with
policy makers in the importing countries; development of new end uses;
farm level training for farmers; etc.
On the other hand, with the liberalization of the Indian
economy, imports of spices are steadily growing and has reached an all
time high of 1,34,260 tons valued at Rs. 591.40 crores (US.$.128.88 million)
during the year 2003-04. As per the current Foreign Trade Policy, there
is no quantitative restriction on import of spices into the country except
for items like 'seed quality' spices and garlic. The tariffs for import
have also been steadily brought down. Under the bilateral agreement with
Sri Lanka, duty free import of spices is permitted. Duty free imports
are also possible for value addition and re-export.
(Source: DGCI&S, KOLKATA, D L I FROM CUSTOM)
