Limited Volatility Expected in Black Pepper Prices

15-May-2026 08:23 PM

Kochi: Although manufacturers of spice products and upcountry traders are showing keen interest in pre-monsoon procurement of black pepper, export activity remains sluggish due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. While the harvesting and processing of the black pepper crop in Kerala have concluded, the process is still underway in Karnataka.

Arrivals of black pepper at the Kochi terminal market remain limited; however, prices remain firm amidst robust trading activity. At the market, the price for the 'garbled' grade was trading at ₹725 per kg, while the 'ungarbled' variety was quoted at ₹715 per kg. The arrival of the Southwest monsoon is now imminent.

In fact, during the monsoon season, the moisture content in black pepper tends to rise—a factor that growers often overlook, but which poses difficulties for firms manufacturing spice oils and oleoresins, as it compromises the quality of the final product. Consequently, these companies prefer to procure dry stock in advance and ensure its safe storage.

Upcountry traders and stockists also face logistical challenges in sourcing supplies during the monsoon season. Currently, imports of black pepper from abroad are negligible; as a result, there is no significant downward pressure on prices.