Small cardamom prices slipped marginally on change in market sentiments at auctions held in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Inspite of continuous decline in arrivals, the prices were showing an easier trend.

Export market was supporting. But, some slow-down was experienced last week in the domestic buying and this phenomenon has aided the decline in the prices, PC Punnoose, General Manager, CPMC, told BusinessLine.

The prices, in fact, are ruling above remunerative levels between ₹950 and ₹1,000 a kg almost throughout the current season, he said.

Meanwhile, at the auction conducted by Cardamom Planters Association (CPA), Santhanpara in Bodinayakannur today, the prices dipped slightly. Of the 22 tonnes arrived here, 20 tonnes were traded. The maximum price stood at ₹1,146 a kg, while the auction average declined to ₹970.34 (971.84).

Supply is showing a shrinkage as the harvesting is towards final stage. Total arrivals last week decreased further to 593 tonnes from 627 tonnes the week before.

Exporters were active and have bought an estimated 120 tonnes of cardamom last week, he said.

The individual auction average has fallen to ₹979.25 a kg from ₹990 the previous week. The auction average was vacillating between ₹965 and ₹1,008 a kg last week.

Total arrivals during the current season as on February 17 were at 17,915 tonnes and sales were at 17,475 tonnes. The individual auction average of the season was at ₹963.10.

Prices of graded varieties (₹/kg): 8mm green bold 1,300-1,325; 7-8 mm: 1,080-1,100 ; 6-7 mm 980. Good bulk fetched ₹980 a kg.

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