The price of black cardamom in Sankhuwasabha has increased this year, breaking a decade-long downward trend. The cash crop now sells for Rs 90,000 per mann (40 kg). About ten years ago, 40 kg of cardamom fetched around Rs 120,000, before prices sharply declined to Rs 25,000.

According to Kumar Shrestha, chair of the Black Cardamom Entrepreneurs Federation in Sankhuwasabha, this price surge is driven by growing international demand. Last year, black cardamom was traded at Rs 60,000-65,000 per 40 kg.

The rising price is also attributed to a decline in production. Black cardamom is a major cash crop for farmers in eastern hill and mountainous districts, including Sankhuwasabha, where approximately 98% of the crop is exported, primarily to India.

In Sankhuwasabha, cardamom is cultivated across 2,871 hectares. However, many cardamom gardens contain aging plants, contributing to the production decline. Last year’s production stood at 940 metric tons, but it is expected to decrease further this year. -- RSS