The production of cumin in Gujarat is expected to decrease this year due to a significant 17.22% reduction in the sowing area.

Last year, cumin was sowed across 561,300 hectares, but this time it has decreased to 464,600 hectares.

While this is a reduction, it is still above the normal average of 381,424 hectares. The decrease in sowing area could result in a lower production, but the final impact will depend largely on weather conditions during January and February, as cumin harvesting begins in March.

The reduced sowing area in Gujarat is being attributed to exceptional circumstances last year, when cumin sowing reached a record high due to high domestic market prices, which incentivized farmers to expand their cultivation.

This year, analysts expect a slight reduction in cumin production compared to last year, but the overall production is expected to remain within normal levels.

In contrast, Rajasthan's sowing of cumin is reported to be normal, although the average yield there is lower compared to Gujarat.

Meanwhile, in Gujarat's Unjha Mandi, an average of 7,000 to 8,000 bags of cumin are arriving daily, with prices fluctuating by 50-60 rupees. Additionally, cumin exports surged significantly during the first half of 2024, with exports reaching over 1.28 lakh tonnes between April and September.