India produces the world's finest green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) from Kerala and Tamil Nadu estates. Indian cardamom is prized for its high volatile oil content, intense aroma, and distinctive sweet-spicy flavor profile.
This guide covers cardamom grades, quality specs, FOB pricing, harvest seasons, and export documentation for sourcing premium cardamom from India.
Kerala's Idukki district produces over 60% of India's cardamom. The region's high altitude (900-1500m), rainfall, and soil conditions create ideal growing conditions for premium 8mm Bold grade.
Indian Green Cardamom Grades
| Grade | Capsule Size | Color | Market Preference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8mm Bold (AGEB) | 8mm+ | Greenish | Premium export, Middle East, EU |
| 7mm (AGS) | 7-8mm | Greenish | Standard export grade |
| 6mm (AGL) | 6-7mm | Light green | Food manufacturing, blends |
| 5mm (AGLSD) | 5-6mm | Mixed green | Industrial processing |
| Cardamom Seeds | De-husked | Black | Spice blends, grinding |
Quality Specifications
| Parameter | Premium Grade (8mm Bold) | Standard Grade (7mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture Content | Max 10% | Max 12% |
| Volatile Oil | 8-12% | 6-9% |
| Color | Bright green | Greenish |
| Extraneous Matter | Max 0.5% | Max 1% |
| Immature/Light Capsules | Max 2% | Max 5% |
| Broken Capsules | Max 3% | Max 5% |
FOB Pricing India 2026
| Grade | FOB Price (USD/kg) | Port | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8mm Bold (AGEB) | $28 - $35 | Cochin | Premium grade, highest oil |
| 7mm (AGS) | $22 - $28 | Cochin | Standard export |
| 6mm (AGL) | $18 - $23 | Cochin | Industrial use |
| 5mm (AGLSD) | $15 - $19 | Cochin | Processing grade |
| Cardamom Seeds | $12 - $16 | Cochin, Mumbai | De-husked, for grinding |
Cardamom prices are highly volatile — influenced by monsoon, crop yield, and global demand. Prices typically peak June-August (pre-harvest scarcity) and drop October-December (fresh harvest).
Harvest Season & Availability
- Main Harvest: September-November (60% of annual production)
- Secondary Harvest: February-April (40% of annual production)
- Processing: Sun/mechanical drying, curing to preserve green color and volatile oil
- Best Quality Period: October-January (fresh crop, high oil content)
Growing Regions
- Kerala (70%): Idukki, Wayanad — premium 8mm and 7mm grades
- Tamil Nadu (25%): Theni, Dindigul — good quality, slightly smaller capsules
- Karnataka (5%): Kodagu — smaller volumes, mixed grades
Packaging Options
- Bulk Export: 10kg or 25kg corrugated cartons with food-grade PE lining
- Retail Packs: 50g, 100g, 250g pouches or glass jars
- Premium: Vacuum-sealed packs to preserve volatile oil and aroma
Export Documentation
| Document | Issued By | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Indian Exporter | Product details, pricing |
| Packing List | Indian Exporter | Carton count, weight |
| Bill of Lading | Shipping Line | Cargo proof |
| Certificate of Origin | Spice Board / Chamber | Origin verification |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | NPPO India | Pest-free certification |
| Spice Board Certificate | Spice Board of India | Quality compliance |
| Lab Test Report | NABL Lab | Volatile oil, moisture analysis |
Key Export Markets
| Market | Preferred Grade | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia / UAE | 8mm Bold | Coffee flavoring, Arabic cuisine |
| Kuwait / Qatar | 8mm Bold, 7mm | Coffee, spice blends |
| USA / EU | 7mm, Organic certified | Specialty stores, baking |
| Pakistan | 7mm, 6mm | Chai masala, food service |
| Japan / South Korea | 8mm Bold | Premium retail, confectionery |
Quality Testing Parameters
Request lab test reports for:
- Volatile Oil: Steam distillation method, 6-12% depending on grade
- Moisture: Max 10-12%
- Color Retention: Visual inspection (bright green for premium)
- Aflatoxin: Should be ND (Not Detected)
- Pesticide Residues: MRL compliance for destination market
Selecting a Reliable Indian Cardamom Exporter
- Spice Board Registration: Verify on Spice Board website
- Estate Sourcing: Direct sourcing from Idukki/Wayanad estates for premium quality
- Processing Facility: Own curing/drying facility ensures quality control
- Lab Testing: Provides volatile oil and moisture test reports
- Sample Approval: Always request 100-200g sample before bulk order
Payment Terms
- First Order: LC at sight or 50% advance + 50% against BL
- Repeat Orders: 30% advance + 70% against documents
- Established: Open account 30 days
Logistics & Lead Time
- From Cochin Port: 12-18 days to Middle East, 20-30 days to EU/USA
- Container Load: 20' container ~5-6 MT, 40' container ~10-12 MT
- Total Lead Time: 20-40 days (order to delivery)
Import Premium Green Cardamom from India
Draba Ventures sources 8mm Bold and 7mm green cardamom directly from Kerala estates. We provide Spice Board certificates, lab test reports, and handle all export documentation.
Request Cardamom Quote