SANKHUWASABHA: Cardamom prices have declined this year in Sankhuwasabha, with the spice now being traded at Rs 80,000 per 40 kg, down from last year’s Rs 90,000.
Although cardamom prices had shown signs of recovery last year after nearly a decade of decline, the trend has reversed again. Known as “black gold”, cardamom is now fetching between Rs 80,000 to Rs 82,000 per 40 kilo, depending on its quality, according to Kumar Shrestha, President of the Sankhuwasabha Cardamom Traders’ Federation.
“Last year, high-grade cardamom was traded for as much as Rs 110,000 per 40 kilo,” said Shrestha. “This year, due to increased production and lower international demand, prices have dropped. Well-graded cardamom is currently being sold for Rs 82,000, while ungraded varieties are priced at Rs 80,000.”
Cardamom, used primarily as a spice, is a vital export product for Nepal, with 98% of production destined for foreign markets. In Sankhuwasabha alone, cardamom is cultivated across approximately 2,871 hectares, and the district produced over 940 metric tons last year.
Despite its economic importance, farmers have long complained that they do not benefit fairly from cardamom trade. The spice is categorized into three grades—A, B, and C, which significantly influences its market price.
Cardamom farming remains a key source of income in Nepal’s eastern hill districts, including Panchthar, Taplejung, Ilam, and Dhankuta, alongside Sankhuwasabha.
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