India is the world's largest producer and exporter of spices, and many buyers source their core lines here. Each spice has its own growing regions, grades and quality checks. This guide covers four of the most traded.
Cumin seeds
Most of India's cumin is grown in Gujarat and Rajasthan, and the Unjha market in north Gujarat is the main trading centre. Export grades are usually described by purity, for example 98% or 99%, and by cleaning method. "Singapore quality" and "Europe quality" are common trade terms, with the Europe grades held to stricter limits on admixture and residues.
Turmeric
Turmeric is sold as whole fingers, bulbs and powder. Buyers often specify curcumin content, moisture and the polished or unpolished finish. For powder, ask for colour value and confirm that no artificial colour is added.
Red chilli
Dried red chillies are traded whole, with or without stem, and as powder or crushed flakes. Varieties differ in colour and heat, which are measured in ASTA colour units and Scoville heat units. If colour matters more than heat, or the other way round, say so in your specification.
Coriander seeds
Coriander is traded by size, colour and cleanliness under grade names such as eagle and scooter, and also as split seeds. Greener, bolder seeds generally fetch higher prices.
Quality checks that matter
- Purity and admixture: the percentage of foreign seeds, stones and dust.
- Moisture: too much invites mould during the voyage.
- Microbiology: salmonella and total plate count, especially for ready-to-eat use.
- Pesticide residues and aflatoxin: essential for the EU, the UK and other strict markets. Agree the test standard and the laboratory in advance.
- Sortex cleaning: machine sorting by colour gives a cleaner, more uniform lot.
Packing and shipping
Whole spices usually travel in 25 kg or 50 kg PP or jute bags. Powders go in lined bags or cartons. Ask for fumigation where your country requires it, and make sure containers are clean, dry and lined to protect against condensation.
Seasonality and pricing
Spice prices follow the harvest and the weather. Cumin and coriander are harvested in late winter and spring, and new-crop prices can differ sharply from old-crop prices. Agree whether your contract is for new or old crop.
Rudra International exports cumin, turmeric, red chilli, coriander, fennel, fenugreek, black pepper and cardamom from India. See our spices range and the rest of our agro commodities.