Possibility of Price Rise in Fenugreek Due to Declining Production
14-May-2026 07:46 PM
New Delhi: Reports indicate that the country's fenugreek yield is expected to be lower this year compared to the last, primarily because sowing has declined not only in the major producing states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat but also in Rajasthan. According to available information, fenugreek sowing across the country during the current season covered an area of 1.15 lakh hectares—a 12 percent decrease compared to the previous year. Furthermore, post-sowing weather conditions remained unfavorable for the crop, resulting in a decline in production. Industry sources estimate that the total fenugreek production in the country during the current season will likely amount to only 12 to 13 lakh quintals, whereas production estimates last year stood at 17 to 18 lakh quintals.
State-wise Production
Traders estimate that in the key producing state of Madhya Pradesh, fenugreek production this year is projected to be around 7 to 8 lakh quintals, while Gujarat is expected to produce 3 to 3.50 lakh quintals, and Rajasthan is likely to yield 2 to 2.50 lakh quintals.
Decline in Arrivals
Typically, during the month of April, the arrival of new fenugreek crops at wholesale markets (*mandis*) in producing centers is at its peak. However, this year, after an initial surge in arrivals during early April, the inflow began to decline towards the end of the month. Currently, arrivals at the Neemuch market in Madhya Pradesh have dropped to 1,500–1,800 bags, while at Jawra, they stand at 1,000–1,200 bags. Meanwhile, arrivals at the Rajkot market in Gujarat are hovering between 400 and 500 bags. In Rajasthan, arrivals at the Kota market have fallen to 400–500 bags, whereas the Nokha market is currently receiving 3,000 to 3,500 bags.
Prices
Due to weak arrivals and rising demand from local stockists, fenugreek prices in the *mandis* (markets) of Madhya Pradesh witnessed a surge of ₹300–400 in recent days, pushing the price for average quality produce to ₹6,300–6,800 per quintal. However, demand has recently been dampened by these elevated price levels; consequently, prices have begun to soften, currently trading with a downward correction of ₹50–100.
No Major Decline Expected
Market experts suggest that there is little likelihood of a significant decline in current fenugreek prices, as total availability is expected to remain lower than consumption levels. Sources indicate that during the current season, total availability—comprising a projected yield of 12–13 lakh quintals plus a carry-over stock of 2–3 lakh quintals—will amount to 14–15 lakh quintals. In contrast, the combined demand from domestic and export markets is estimated at 18–20 lakh quintals. Given this current scenario, it is anticipated that fenugreek prices could reach record-breaking levels during the ongoing season. Currently, the price for Sortex-quality fenugreek is hovering around ₹69–70 per kilogram. Should peace be restored in the Middle East—triggering a resurgence in export demand—prices could potentially touch the ₹95 mark, thereby setting a new record high. Previously, the record price stood at ₹92–93 per kilogram, established in the year 2016.
Exports
During the first ten months of the current financial year (2025–26), fenugreek exports witnessed a 13 percent increase in volume; however, due to lower realization rates on export prices, the corresponding revenue saw a more modest increase of just 2 percent. According to data released by the Spices Board, fenugreek exports between April 2025 and January 2026 totaled 40,633 tonnes, generating revenue of ₹304.97 crore. This compares to the April 2024–January 2025 period, during which 35,907 tonnes were exported, yielding a revenue of ₹298.14 crore. During the year 2024–25 (April–March), the total export of fenugreek amounted to 44,516 tonnes, and the revenue generated from these exports stood at ₹365.89 crore.