Large cardamom, often called the “black gold of the eastern hills,” has reached its highest price in seven years, marking a strong start to the harvest season.
In Birtamode, Nepal’s largest cardamom trading hub, the spice was sold at Rs 94,000 per man (40 kg) on Monday, according to Anil Dhungana, executive director of the Federation of Large Cardamom Entrepreneurs’ Association. This is more than double last year’s price of around Rs 40,000 per man during the same period.
Historical Price Trends
- 2010: Record high of Rs 120,000 per man
- 2018: Prices reached Rs 105,000 early in the season, peaking at Rs 107,000 in December
- 2024: Rs 94,000 per man at the season’s start, with expectations of further rise by December-January
Farmers and Traders Benefiting
Farmers, who typically spend Rs 20,000 to produce one man of cardamom, are reaping direct profits from the price surge. Traders often stockpile during the season to resell later at higher prices, amplifying their earnings.
Cultivation and Export
- Cultivation Areas: Grown in 42 districts, with Koshi Province leading production (notably Panchthar, Taplejung, Ilam, Sankhuwasabha, Khotang, Bhojpur, and Tehrathum)
- Land Under Cultivation in Koshi: Over 7,500 hectares
- Exports: Rs 7.67 billion worth exported to India in FY 2024/25 via Kakarbhitta
- Export Dependency: Around 90% of Nepal’s cardamom is exported, mostly to India, where it is rebranded before entering global markets
Despite the booming prices, Nepali cardamom still lacks direct international market access, leaving farmers and exporters dependent on Indian traders to reach global buyers.
