The Government of India is actively working to enhance the export potential of turmeric and other spices through a targeted initiative called the Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development (SPICED) scheme. This programme, implemented by the Spices Board, aims to position Indian turmeric as a global leader in quality, innovation, and sustainable trade.

Under the SPICED scheme, several programmes have been launched to address every stage of the export process. These include implementing strict food safety and quality assurance mechanisms, assisting farmers and processors with post-harvest quality upgrades, and supporting initiatives for processing and value addition. The scheme also organises training sessions for stakeholders, empowering them to produce export-ready turmeric that meets the expectations of global markets.

One of the primary objectives of the scheme is to ensure that export consignments of turmeric comply with the quality standards of importing countries. To achieve this, consignments are thoroughly evaluated in quality evaluation laboratories before shipment. The government also facilitates domestic and international Buyer-Seller Meets, creating direct market connections between farmers, exporters, and international buyers.

Recognising turmeric’s global appeal and its potential in medicinal, cosmetic, and culinary applications, the National Turmeric Board was officially established on October 4, 2023. This specialised body focuses exclusively on promoting the growth, innovation, and export of turmeric and its value-added products.

The National Turmeric Board has multiple objectives that complement the SPICED scheme. These include:

• Promoting new product development and expanding value addition in turmeric.

• Raising awareness about turmeric’s benefits and increasing its consumption in international markets.

• Conducting market research in emerging export destinations to identify demand patterns and growth opportunities.

• Improving infrastructure and logistics to ensure efficient and timely delivery of turmeric shipments.

• Building resilient and sustainable supply chains to withstand global market fluctuations.

• Ensuring compliance with international quality and safety standards.

• Promoting capacity building and skill development among turmeric growers.

• Strengthening documentation of traditional knowledge related to turmeric’s uses and benefits.

• Encouraging scientific research into turmeric’s medicinal properties and potential health applications.

India’s leadership in the global turmeric market is evident from its share of world turmeric exports, which has consistently ranged from 58% to 66% between 2020 and 2024. The country recorded its highest turmeric export value in 2024, amounting to US$ 333.25 million.

The top five importers of Indian turmeric since 2020 are Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United States of America (USA), Malaysia, and Morocco. These markets have shown sustained demand for Indian turmeric, thanks to its superior quality, rich colour, and high curcumin content.

The SPICED scheme and the National Turmeric Board together form a comprehensive framework for the development of India’s turmeric sector. By focusing on value addition, product innovation, supply chain efficiency, and market expansion, the government aims to strengthen the livelihoods of turmeric farmers, boost rural employment, and enhance India’s position as the global hub for turmeric production and exports.

The scheme’s support in post-harvest processes is particularly significant. It ensures that turmeric is dried, cleaned, and processed under internationally accepted food safety protocols. This not only maintains the natural qualities of turmeric but also increases its shelf life, making it more attractive for distant markets.

The government is also encouraging entrepreneurship in the turmeric sector, offering assistance to startups and small-scale businesses engaged in turmeric processing, packaging, and branding. This creates opportunities for innovative turmeric-based products, including dietary supplements, herbal cosmetics, ready-to-use spice mixes, and functional beverages.

By maintaining a strict quality assurance system and aligning with the requirements of importing countries, India ensures that its turmeric commands a premium price in the global marketplace. The integration of traditional agricultural practices with modern processing techniques under the SPICED scheme strengthens the overall competitiveness of Indian turmeric.

In conclusion, the SPICED scheme and the National Turmeric Board are pivotal in shaping the future of India’s turmeric exports. With targeted interventions in quality improvement, value addition, and market linkages, these initiatives not only boost export revenue but also uphold India’s cultural and agricultural heritage. As demand for high-quality turmeric continues to grow worldwide, these measures ensure that India remains the undisputed leader in turmeric production and trade for years to come.

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