Turmeric prices experienced a slight increase of 0.41% to reach Rs 16,566, driven by below-average arrivals in major markets throughout Maharashtra and Telangana, which sustained positive sentiment in the short term. The ongoing supply tightness in premium quality stocks can be attributed to moisture-related crop damage and rhizome rot issues, which have diminished the availability of export-grade “Double Polished” turmeric. Robust demand for IPM-certified turmeric from European purchasers, coupled with active procurement inquiries from Bangladesh for finger-variety turmeric, has also bolstered prices in Andhra Pradesh mandis.

Furthermore, the Union Agriculture Ministry has adjusted its production estimates downward to 1.140 million tons, while carry-forward stocks are projected to be around 15 lakh bags, a decrease from over 20 lakh bags in the previous season, suggesting a tighter overall availability. Increasing temperatures throughout South India are heightening concerns regarding quality deterioration and weight loss in stored stocks, thereby bolstering premium-grade turmeric prices. Nonetheless, the upward momentum was constrained by increasing arrivals in the mandis of Nizamabad, Erode, and Hingoli, resulting in a temporary supply pressure.

Farmers in Telangana and Maharashtra have ramped up stock liquidation to enhance liquidity in anticipation of Kharif sowing activities. Concurrently, the influx of late-harvested high-moisture produce has led to significant discounting in average-quality lots. Profit-taking by significant traders and stockists further contributed to the selling pressure. Disruptions in export logistics associated with tensions in the Middle East have further impeded new buying commitments. In the realm of trade, turmeric exports for the period of April to February 2026 saw a modest increase of 1%, reaching a total of 163,336 tonnes.

Conversely, imports experienced a significant decline of 40%, falling to 12,476 tonnes. In Nizamabad spot markets, prices concluded with an increase of 0.63%, reaching Rs 15,825. From a technical perspective, the market is experiencing short covering, evidenced by a 4.87% decline in open interest to 11,435, alongside a price increase of Rs 68. Turmeric exhibits immediate support levels at Rs 16,462 and Rs 16,360, with resistance identified at Rs 16,654, subsequently followed by Rs 16,744.