Government Expands Turmeric Export Potential through SPICED Scheme

Context:

The Government of India, through the Spices Board, is promoting turmeric exports via the SPICED Scheme and strengthening sectoral development through the National Turmeric Board.

SPICED Scheme:

Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development (SPICED).
Implemented by: Spices Board, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Key Components:
- Food safety and quality assurance certifications to meet international standards.
- Post-harvest quality upgradation, value addition, and processing support.
- Training for stakeholders in quality improvement and entrepreneurship development.
- Quality evaluation of turmeric export consignments via accredited laboratories.
- Buyer–Seller Meets (domestic & international) to create direct market linkages between farmers, exporters, processors, and global buyers.

National Turmeric Board:

Establishment & Role: Central body to lead policy, coordination, and development for turmeric sector; works alongside Spices Board and other agencies.
Headquarters: Nizamabad, Telangana – major turmeric-growing hub.
Composition:
- Chairperson – appointed by Central Government
- Secretary – from Department of Commerce
- Members from Ministry of AYUSH, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry
- State representatives – top two turmeric-producing states (Maharashtra, Telangana) + Meghalaya, rotation basis
- Institutions for research, turmeric farmers, exporters.

Mandate:

R&D, value addition, medicinal & essential property promotion
Improving yields, logistics, and supply chains
Quality & safety standards for production/export
Market exploration in new international destinations

Turmeric in India:

“Golden Spice” grown in 20 states; major producers – Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu
70% of world production; 30 varieties cultivated in India
Major export markets – Bangladesh, UAE, USA, Malaysia