Iran war hits Marathwada turmeric trade

Metro India News | SAMBHAJINAGAR

Turmeric exports from Maharashtra’s Marathwada region have come to a halt due to the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, triggering a sharp drop in domestic prices. The spice, which previously sold at Rs 16,500 per quintal, is now trading at Rs 13,000, with further declines likely if the war persists.

Shiv Sena MLC Hemant Patil said Marathwada’s turmeric is mainly exported to Gulf and African countries, but shipments have stopped since last month. Hingoli, Nanded, Wardha, Parbhani, Yavatmal, and Washim form the major turmeric belts, producing around 25 lakh tonnes annually. Hingoli alone cultivates about 2 lakh hectares of the crop, including the GI-tagged Vasmat variety recognized in 2024.

Processed turmeric from these districts is shipped overseas via Tamil Nadu and Kerala ports, said Patil, who also heads the Balasaheb Thackeray Turmeric Research and Training Centre in Hingoli.

Traders expressed concern over the price slump. “The export ban has affected domestic demand as well. Prices have already dropped, and the decline may continue if the conflict drags on,” said Prakash Soni, a Hingoli-based turmeric trader.

According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India exported turmeric worth USD 341.54 million in 2024-25, with Maharashtra alone contributing USD 155.35 million. Major export destinations included Bangladesh, the UAE, the US, Malaysia, and Morocco.

The war has not only disrupted trade but also threatened the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and traders dependent on Marathwada turmeric, highlighting the crop’s vulnerability to global geopolitical tensions.