HMPV disease has no effect on export of red chilli from India to China

09-Jan-2025 04:12 PM

The outbreak of HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) disease in China has not affected the export of red chilli from India to China, according to the chairman of the All India Red Chilli Exporters Association.

Despite the disease's spread, there has been no noticeable impact on the trade, as China remains the largest importer of Indian red chilli. Currently, Chinese importers are awaiting the arrival of India's new red chilli crop, which is expected to bring prices down, thereby increasing exports.

On the other hand, the export of red chilli to Bangladesh has faced some challenges due to local issues, although it is expected to pick up once the situation stabilizes.

Malaysia, too, may see an uptick in imports soon, as the stock of previously imported goods is running low.

According to the Spices Board data, India's red chilli exports from April to October 2024 reached 3.30 lakh tonnes, marking a 9% increase compared to the same period in 2023 (3.04 lakh tonnes).

However, while export earnings in rupees have risen, they have fallen in dollar terms, dropping by 15% from $757 million in 2023 to $645 million in 2024.

In the domestic markets, the price of Byadagi 'KDL' variety of red chilli has significantly decreased from Rs 50,000-55,000 per quintal in January 2024 to around Rs 32,000 per quintal now, marking a 41% price drop.

The steady inflow of red chillies into markets indicates that prices could fluctuate further depending on demand.