India is aiming to increase its spices export revenue by more than double in the next five years, with a target of $10 billion by 2030 and $25 billion by 2047, according to Spices Board Secretary P Hemalatha. The country’s spices exports reached $4.4 billion in 2023-24.
Speaking at the International Spice Conference (ISC) 2025, organised by the All India Spices Exporters Forum (AISEF), Hemalatha highlighted the implementation of strict quality control measures by the Spices Board. This includes mandatory ethylene oxide (ETO) testing for exports to the European Union, Hong Kong, and Singapore to ensure food safety and compliance.
She also emphasized the Board’s focus on harmonizing global spice standards through active participation in the Codex Committee on Spices, aiming to facilitate smoother trade and reduce technical barriers.
Acknowledging climate change as a significant challenge, Hemalatha noted that the Indian spice industry is embracing climate-smart agricultural practices and developing resilient crop varieties. The sector is also adopting technologies such as IoT, blockchain, and robotics to enhance transparency, traceability, and operational efficiency to meet global consumer demands.
The four-day conference brings together global industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in the spice trade.
In his address, Krishna M Ella, Executive Chairman of Bharat Biotech International Ltd, emphasized the need for a strong regulatory system in the spice industry. He called for collaboration among researchers, industry leaders, and regulatory bodies to create a sustainable and high-quality spice industry.
Ella highlighted the medicinal value of spices and urged the industry to treat them with rigorous standards similar to pharmaceuticals. He also advocated for more focus on seed development, nanotechnology for pesticide reduction, and bio-stimulants to enhance plant resilience.
Emmanuel Nambusseril, Chairman of AISEF, stated that India remains a key player in the global spice trade, with the market valued at $24 billion in 2024. The Indian spice market is projected to reach $61 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 10.56%. This growth reflects advancements in spice cultivation, processing, and consumption.
The conference aims to foster collaborations and policies that will strengthen India’s position as the world’s spice capital. Through expert panels, research presentations, and industry initiatives, the event seeks to shape the future of the spice industry.
