Lower Sowing Area and Strong Demand Indicate Improvement in Cumin Prices

28-Jan-2026 01:16 PM

Rajkot: Due to a decrease in the sowing area in Gujarat, the leading producing state, and strong domestic and export demand, cumin prices, after a long period of softness or stability, are now showing signs of gradual improvement.

Analysts believe that cumin prices in 2026 will be somewhat higher than in 2024 and 2025, but it is unlikely to reach the record levels of 2023.

In the near future, cumin prices could rise to Rs. 28,500 per quintal, but it will only go higher if the crop is not damaged by natural calamities or if domestic and export demand remains strong. Cumin prices are expected to fluctuate between Rs. 27,500 and Rs. 28,500 per quintal until April 2026.

India alone contributes nearly 75 percent to the global production of cumin and remains the leading exporter. Cumin prices largely depend on global market demand.

China has been a major buyer. Sowing of cumin is about to begin in China in February, which is being closely watched by Indian traders.

The sowing and crop situation there will become clear by April. If there are indications of increased production in China, it could affect the export demand and price of Indian cumin, but if production decreases there, prices could rise.

If the tension, war, or unrest continues in the Middle East, the demand for cumin could be affected. It will still be a long time before new cumin supplies arrive from countries like Turkey, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan.

As far as the pressure from the futures market is concerned, there are indications of increased investor interest not only for short covering but also for new purchases.

The difference between the highest and lowest average daily prices of cumin on the exchange surged to ₹614 per quintal in January 2026,

which is approximately 60 percent higher than the price difference of ₹389 per quintal recorded in December. This indicates strong investor participation in the cumin market.