India is the second-largest producing country in the world, the exported volume and value have fluctuated since 2012, hit the record-high exported value and volume respectively in 2020 (USD 114 million) and 2017 (5,776 MT).
As per the latest Spices Board data, cardamom exports between April to February 2022-23 stood at 7,031 Mt, worth Rs 828.50 crore (USD 99.52 M), a decline of 25 percent in volume and 33 percent in value YOY In 2021-22, exports had peaked at 10,572 Mt, worth Rs 1,375.70 crore.(USD 165.25 M)
The main producing regions are Kerala (35%), Sikkim (17%), Karnataka (5.94%), Nagaland (5.86%), West Bengal (3.16%), Tamil Nadu (1.50%).
The seasonality of cardamom cultivation in India varies slightly across different regions, but in general, the harvesting season extends from late summer to early winter. Here is a rough breakdown of the seasonality by region:
Green/Small Cardamon regions :
1. Kerala (Idukki district):
Harvesting Season: August to January
Peak Season: September to November
2. Karnataka (Coorg district):
Harvesting Season: August to January
Peak Season: September to November
3. Tamil Nadu (Western Ghats region, Nilgiris, Kanyakumari):
Harvesting Season: August to January
Peak Season: September to November
2. Black/ Big Cardamon Regions :
4. Assam: In the northeastern part of India, Assam also has some areas where cardamom is cultivated.
5. Himachal Pradesh: Certain regions in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the higher altitudes, may also engage in cardamom cultivation.
6. Sikkim: This northeastern state is known for its favorable conditions for cardamom cultivation.
7. Andhra Pradesh: Some parts of Andhra Pradesh, especially the hilly regions, may contribute to cardamom production.
These are general timelines, and the actual harvesting periods may be influenced by specific weather conditions, local agricultural practices, and other factors.