Spices export up by 15 pc in value

Spices export up by 15 pc in value Kochi, Dec 29 (PTI) Spices export during April-Novemberperiod this year increased by 15 per cent in value and six percent in quantity terms, as compared with the same period lastyear. The total export during the period touched 3,10,830tonnes, valued at Rs 3,450.50 crore (786.25 million USD). Indollar terms, the increase was six per cent, spices board saidin a press release here. During the corresponding period last fiscal, about2,94,335 tonnes valued at Rs 3,010.25 crore (742.95 million USDollar) were exported. During April-November 2008, export of most of the majorspices have shown an increasing trend both in terms ofquantity and value as compared with the same period lastyear. However, export of pepper and mint products declinedboth in terms of quantity and value as compared with lastyear. Export of Ginger and Chilli have declined only inquantity during the period. During April-November 2008, export of pepper from Indiahad been 16,850 tonnes valued Rs 281.77 crore, as against25,230 tonnes valued Rs 365.36 crore of last year. The average export price of pepper has gone up from Rs144.81 per kg in 2007 to Rs 167.22 per kg in 2008. Lowinventory in the major international markets due to theeconomic recession is reported to be the major reason for thedecline in exports. (MORE) PTI