The coronavirus pandemic slowed down exports this year. However, cardamom export is back in business as exports from Samtse alone doubled in October compared to the same time last year. Close to Nu 54 M worth of cardamom was exported last month, and the number is expected to increase by the end of this year.
Cardamom export for the year from Samtse is comparatively lower to last year. Still, exporters say the quality is better this year.
“Due to the pandemic, the price is about Nu 20 to 50 lower compared to last year. But the cardamom that we export has improved in quality and compared to last year, the quantity also increased,” said Pralad Agarwal, an exporter in Samtse.
“The Food Corporation of Bhutan supported the farmers. They went to different gewogs informing farmers to maintain quality, so this year the quality has improved,” said B. Ghallay, also an exporter in Samtse.
Close to 250,000 kgs or Nu 129 M worth of cardamom have been exported till October from Samtse. More of better quality yield is expected for November and December export.
“The quality will improve further. The ones we are getting now is not the best quality. Now, as November ends, we will start receiving cardamom grown in the higher altitudes. And those will be matured and of superior quality,” said Pralad Agarwal.
According to exporters, there are two types of cardamom, one grown in the high altitudes and one in lower altitudes. The ones grown in higher altitudes are bigger and highly sought for in the market.
Export works are smooth from the integrated checkpoint in Samtse. However, exporters say trucks carrying goods are stopped at various point on the Indian roads for checks and taxes despite having proper documentation. Cardamom from Bhutan is exported to Bangladesh and India.
Sherub Dorji
