Finshots Daily Why the world is turning back to Indian cardamom
Jan 6, 2026
Cardamom returns to the spotlight as prices soar, driven by rising demand. Its deep cultural ties to Indian tea showcase its significance in daily life. The fascinating history traces its journey from the Western Ghats to global markets. El Niño complicates Guatemala's cardamom supply, pushing buyers towards India for its superior aroma. Despite challenges, India's smallholder-driven approach offers resilience and rich flavor, yet registration limits restrict farmers' gains. The changing landscape makes Indian cardamom a hot commodity once more.
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Origins And Premium Status
- Cardamom originated in India's Western Ghats and was historically exported to the Middle East and Europe.
- It remains the third most expensive spice globally due to rarity and high cultivation costs.
How Guatemala Dominated Production
- A German planter moved Kerala cardamom to Guatemala in 1914 and it thrived there on highland estates.
- Guatemala scaled plantation production and became the world's largest producer over the last century.
Harvest Timing Shapes Resilience
- Guatemala's year-round harvesting spreads risk across cycles and stabilises incomes.
- India's short peak harvest window concentrates risk and kept cultivation smallholder-driven.