Market
Turmeric powder (HS 0910.30) in Guatemala is supplied largely through imports, with 2023 UN Comtrade data (via WITS) showing imports of USD 658.42k (291,569 kg) versus exports of USD 248.40k (53,986 kg), indicating a net-importer market with a small export niche. In 2023, imports were sourced mainly from India, with additional volumes from El Salvador and the United States. Guatemala’s Ministry of Agriculture (MAGA) reports that turmeric cultivation is gaining popularity and is suited to the Southern Coast (Costa Sur) and lower-elevation mountainous areas. Cooperative-linked processing and export channels exist in Alta Verapaz (e.g., FEDECOVERA in Cobán), including organic turmeric supply to international buyers.
Market RoleNet importer with niche domestic production and exports
SeasonalityMAGA notes harvest commonly occurs about 8–10 months after planting; timing varies by location and planting schedule.
Risks
Food Safety HighGround spices including turmeric have documented history of intentional adulteration with lead compounds (e.g., lead chromate/lead oxide) and other contamination risks; this can trigger border detentions, recalls, or loss of market access for both imported supply into Guatemala and Guatemala’s niche exports to strict markets.Require supplier verification programs: heavy metals testing (e.g., Pb and Cr), authenticity/adulteration screening, HACCP/GMP controls, and routine third-party lab COAs tied to lot traceability.
Regulatory Compliance MediumProcessed food commercialization in Guatemala may require MSPAS sanitary registration and Spanish labelling; gaps in registration, label compliance, or customs documentation can delay or block distribution.Confirm product classification and MSPAS registration pathway early; prepare Spanish label/complementary label files and align customs documentation to SAT DUA-GT requirements.
Quality MediumLow-moisture spices can still face mould/mycotoxin and quality degradation if moisture control fails; Codex CXS 359-2024 sets mould visible at 0% max for ground turmeric and references Codex mycotoxin prevention guidance for spices.Use validated drying and moisture-barrier packaging, control storage humidity, and implement incoming/finished-goods testing aligned to Codex quality parameters.
Logistics MediumGuatemala’s turmeric supply is import-concentrated (notably India in 2023), creating exposure to origin price shocks, freight disruptions, and lead-time volatility that can tighten availability in the domestic market.Diversify approved origins, maintain safety stock for key SKUs, and qualify regional backup suppliers where feasible.
Sustainability- MAGA communications describe turmeric cultivation as largely organic in some Guatemalan production areas; export programs should verify certification integrity and residue management to meet buyer requirements.
Labor & Social- Alta Verapaz turmeric value chains are linked to cooperative systems that emphasize small producer participation (e.g., FEDECOVERA); buyers should conduct human-rights due diligence appropriate for agricultural smallholder supply chains in the Verapaces region.
FAQ
Is Guatemala mainly an importer or an exporter of turmeric (HS 0910.30)?Guatemala is a net importer based on UN Comtrade data via WITS: in 2023 it imported about USD 658.42k (291,569 kg) and exported about USD 248.40k (53,986 kg). Imports were led by India, while exports went mainly to the United States and nearby regional markets.
What are commonly referenced quality specifications for ground turmeric powder?Codex CXS 359-2024 (Standard for dried/dehydrated turmeric) provides reference specifications for powdered/ground turmeric, including moisture at 10% w/w maximum, total ash (dry basis) at 9% maximum, acid-insoluble ash (dry basis) at 1.5% maximum, and curcuminoids (colouring power, dry basis) at 2% minimum; it also sets visible mould at 0% maximum for the ground style.
What are key Guatemala compliance steps for selling imported turmeric powder domestically?Guatemala’s SAT administers customs entry using the DUA-GT goods declaration. For commercialization of processed foods, the MSPAS sanitary registration process (Registro Sanitario de Alimentos) is the official pathway and includes label requirements; imported products may need a Spanish complementary label and/or translation as described in the MSPAS trámite guidance.