Prospects for Increased Cardamom Production in Kerala Following Good Rainfall

Idukki: Farmers in Kerala—the leading producer of small cardamom—had been anxious due to a lack of rainfall last month; however, the good rains received during the current month (May) have significantly improved the condition of the crop. Encouraged by the prospect of better returns, growers are also taking excellent care of their plantations.

The Meteorological Department has forecast good rainfall across all major cardamom-producing districts in southern Kerala. In recent days, heavy rainfall has also occurred in isolated pockets within the region. Thanks to regular showers in districts such as Alappuzha, Idukki, Pathanamthitta, and Kottayam, the cardamom crop is now in a much healthier state.

Kerala alone accounts for approximately 80–85 percent of the country's total production of small (green) cardamom, while the remaining output comes from other southern states, including Tamil Nadu. During the 2025–26 season, weather and rainfall conditions remained largely favorable for the crop, resulting in a rise in domestic production to a range of 35,000 to 37,000 tonnes.

The harvesting and processing of the current cardamom crop are nearing completion, and the next round of harvesting is expected to commence in late June or early July. Incidentally, the new marketing season for small cardamom officially begins in August.

In Guatemala—the world's leading producer and exporter of small cardamom—production has reportedly dropped by nearly 50 percent this season. This decline has not only led to a severe shortage in exportable stocks but has also driven up prices significantly.

Consequently, this has presented India with an excellent opportunity to boost its own cardamom exports. The export offer prices for Indian cardamom remain highly competitive, providing much-needed relief to domestic growers.