Export demand has lifted jeera (cumin) futures at a time when stocks in the country are limited and the exportable surplus low. The crop in the other exporting nations, Syria and Turkey, is also on the lower side.
Inventory build-up by stockists has also added to demand pressure in the domestic market.
Gujarat, the main growing area, has received deficient rainfall this season. Between June 1 and July 25, rainfall in the State has been over 50 per cent deficient.
The poor moisture content of the soil is expected to impact sowing which begins around November.
The August contract was up Rs 107 at Rs 16,345 a quintal while the September contract was up Rs 112 at Rs 16,795 for a quintal. The October contract was quoting at Rs 17,130 for a quintal.
Spot prices at Unjha were also up at Rs 16,316 for a quintal.