In a strategic call to action, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, has urged the spice industry to embark on a collaborative journey, aiming to explore new international markets, fortify existing ones, and place an emphasis on value-added spice products, with the ambitious goal of reaching $10 billion in exports by the year 2030.
Addressing the distinguished audience at the World Spice Congress 2023, Minister Goyal stated that the current aggregate exports of spices from India stand at $4 billion. He underscored the need for a transformative shift from merely exporting raw spices to fostering value-added products. Goyal advocated the creation of fresh market opportunities through expansion into untapped regions and the strengthening of footholds in established markets.
In a noteworthy example, Minister Goyal highlighted the surge in demand for turmeric during the Covid-19 pandemic due to its recognized medicinal attributes. He indicated that turmeric exports alone possess the potential to reach an impressive $2 billion if the industry dedicates its energies to developing value-added turmeric products.
Minister Goyal proposed the establishment of a distinct ‘Bharat’ brand or certification, symbolizing superior quality and premium spice products. He emphasized the imperative of avoiding the export of sub-standard spice products, which could tarnish the nation’s image. Instead, he called upon the spice industry to champion innovation, productivity, sustainability, and exclusivity, positioning spices as a premium offering when presented to the global market.
Furthermore, Goyal underscored the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora, which comprises over 35 million individuals residing overseas. He envisioned them as potential catalysts for expanding spice consumption beyond Indian communities, effectively serving as ambassadors for the spice industry on the international stage.
Commending the Spices Board for reviving the Spice Congress after a seven-year hiatus, Minister Goyal called for an extraordinary exposition, symposium, and conference of the spice industry to be held in Delhi in 2024. He expressed his desire to extend invitations to all stakeholders, including international competitors and buyers, in order to elevate the event’s global prominence.
Minister Goyal encapsulated the spirit of the moment by stating that now is the opportune time for the spices industry to go the extra mile and capture the global market. As both the largest producer and consumer of spices, India possesses a rich tapestry of offerings, including saffron from Kashmir, Kerala’s unparalleled black pepper, Gujarat’s distinctive ginger, and Nagaland’s fiery chili. He urged industry players to collectively work towards positioning India as the preferred source of spices worldwide.
The minister’s address at the World Spice Congress underscores the imperative of proactive strategies and concerted efforts to propel India’s spice exports to new heights, championing quality, innovation, and global appeal in the vibrant spice sector.
(With inputs from Press Trust of India)
