Turmeric prices in Erode, Tamil Nadu, have soared to nearly ₹20,000 per quintal due to reduced arrivals, strong demand, and fears of drought impacting future cultivation. Traders warn that prices may climb higher if monsoon rains continue to be insufficient. The finger variety of turmeric hit ₹19,779 per quintal on Monday, a significant jump from ₹15,199 in June.
Market data reveals that the finger variety was trading at about ₹14,000 per quintal in April. Similarly, the bulb variety has seen a price increase from ₹14,000 in April to ₹17,632 per quintal recently. The surge in prices is attributed to limited supplies and expectations of lower production in the upcoming season, with drought conditions in turmeric-growing regions like Erode causing worries about cultivation acreage.
M. Sathyamurthy, from the Erode Turmeric Merchants and Godown Owners’ Association, anticipates reduced cultivation next season due to water scarcity. With wholesalers already stocking up on turmeric in anticipation of a supply shortage, demand is rising despite limited arrivals. Fresh arrivals in major turmeric markets have nearly ceased, with the next significant harvest expected in February 2027.
The price trend in the following months will heavily rely on rainfall, according to Sathyamurthy. Adequate rains could stabilize prices, but prolonged drought may further diminish cultivation and drive prices up. While the current price surge seems promising, farmers like Manirajan from lower Bhavani area express that most have already sold their produce at lower prices. K.R. Sudandhirarasu, president of the Tamil Nadu Small and Micro Farmer Association, highlights concerns over El Niño and inadequate irrigation discouraging cultivation, despite attractive prices.
