NCDEX Live

Turmeric prices experienced a significant decline of 4.29%, settling at Rs 19,968. This drop can be attributed to the resurgence of monsoon activity in Maharashtra, Telangana, and North Karnataka, which alleviated previous worries regarding dry weather and the risk of crop losses. Enhanced rainfall and the replenishment of essential reservoirs in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have bolstered water availability during the vegetative phase, while re-sowing in North Karnataka has been finalised in response to improved precipitation. The enhanced weather conditions have alleviated short-term production worries; however, the influence of El Niño and the distribution of rainfall in the upcoming weeks are critical factors to observe for crop development.

Turmeric acreage is projected to rise by 16.05% year-on-year starting in 2025, remaining above the five-year average of 1.88 lakh hectares. The current elevated prices are incentivising farmers to broaden their cultivation efforts during the ongoing Kharif season. However, overall supply remains structurally constrained as carry-forward stocks are estimated at approximately 15 lakh bags, a decrease from over 20 lakh bags in the previous season. Farmers capitalising on the peak harvest period have enhanced short-term supply, yet purchasers are exercising caution. The regulations regarding Maximum Residue Limits in the European Union have resulted in the rejection of lots that do not comply with Integrated Pest Management standards. This has created discounts for commercial-grade turmeric.

However, the increasing demand for Integrated Pest Management certified stocks provides a supportive backdrop for the market. India’s turmeric exports experienced a slight decline of 1% year-on-year, totalling 18,960 tonnes in May 2026, down from 19,205 tonnes. However, exports for the April-May period remained relatively stable at 33,999 tonnes. Export growth to China, Oman, Yemen, and Italy exhibited robust performance, with shipments to China during April-May experiencing a remarkable surge of 4,631%, reaching 2,021 tonnes. In Nizamabad, the spot price of turmeric experienced a decline of 2.13%, settling at Rs 19,922.40.

Technically, the market continues to experience significant selling pressure, as evidenced by a sharp increase in open interest of 40.98% to 24,960 contracts, coupled with a decline in prices of Rs 896. Turmeric is currently experiencing support around Rs 19,506, and a decline beneath this threshold may reveal Rs 19,042. On the upside, resistance is positioned at Rs 20,694, and a sustained move above this level could initiate a recovery toward Rs 21,418.