India is the world’s largest spice producer. It is also the largest consumer and exporter of spices. The overall production of different types of spices has been growing rapidly over the last few years. Production in 2020-21 stood at 10.7 million tonnes growing at an 8% CAGR since 2014-15.
Spices are used in various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Spices are also used as a flavoring agent in beverages, confectionery products and bakery items. They are also used as natural preservatives in processed foods due to their antimicrobial properties.
The total consumption of spices in India was 5 million tonnes in 2020-21 growing at a CAGR of 9% since 2014-15. The domestic consumption was 4 million tonnes with an average export value of INR 30 billion annually.