Inauguration of the 8th Session of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) in Guwahati
The 8th Session of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) commenced today in Guwahati, inaugurated by Assam’s Governor, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya. This significant event underscores India’s influential role in establishing global food standards and trade practices. Hosted by the Government of India, the session aims to enhance the safety and quality of spices while promoting fair practices in international trade.
India’s Leadership in Global Spice Standards
During his inaugural address, Governor Acharya emphasized the importance of the CCSCH in preserving and promoting India’s rich spice biodiversity. He highlighted the country’s proactive measures, such as the promotion of turmeric as a superfood and the approval of over 200 spices for export. These initiatives reflect India’s growing prominence in the global spice market. The Governor noted that the session serves as a platform for discussing critical standards that will shape the future of spice trade, ensuring that Indian spices meet international quality benchmarks.
Acharya also pointed out the potential of Assam and the North-Eastern region as emerging spice hubs. He stressed that improvements in processing facilities and value addition are crucial for enhancing farmers’ incomes and contributing to the region’s socio-economic development. The Governor’s remarks underline the government’s commitment to fostering a robust spice industry that benefits local communities.
Economic Impact and Future Projections
Shri Rajit Punhani, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), delivered a special address highlighting the economic and cultural significance of spices. He noted that the global spice industry, valued at approximately USD 28.5 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to USD 41.9 billion by 2033. Punhani emphasized the necessity for harmonized, science-based food standards to ensure consumer safety and facilitate equitable global trade. His insights reflect a growing recognition of the spice sector’s potential as a driver of economic growth.
Additionally, Punhani acknowledged India’s leadership in international capacity-building initiatives under the Codex Trust Fund. He referenced the recent Global Food Regulators Summit held in September 2025, which reinforced the importance of global collaboration on food safety and regulatory alignment. This commitment to international cooperation is vital for maintaining high standards in food safety and quality.
Collaborative Efforts and Global Participation
Dr. Hilde Kruse, Senior Food Safety Officer at the Codex Secretariat, expressed gratitude to the Government of India and the Spices Board for hosting the session. She recognized India’s ongoing support through FSSAI and the Spices Board in advancing harmonized global standards for spices and culinary herbs. Dr. Kruse commended the committee’s progress over the past 11 years and highlighted the significance of the recent Global Food Regulators Summit in Delhi.
The current session will focus on deliberating draft and proposed standards for key spices and culinary herbs, including cardamom, coriander, and vanilla. Recommendations from these discussions will be forwarded to the Codex Alimentarius Commission for consideration and approval. The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders aim to strengthen the value chain of Indian spices, ensuring that they meet both domestic and international standards.
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