India Advances Global Spice Standards at 8th Codex Committee Session in Guwahati
The 8th Session of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs commenced on October 13 in Guwahati, Assam, showcasing India’s pivotal role in the global spice industry. Organized by the Spices Board under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the event gathered 81 delegates from 27 countries to deliberate on the establishment of harmonized international standards for spices and culinary herbs. The session aims to enhance quality standards and promote sustainable practices within the spice sector.
Inauguration Highlights
The session was inaugurated by Assam’s Governor, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, who welcomed the international delegates and emphasized the North Eastern region’s rich biodiversity and agricultural heritage. He expressed optimism that the discussions at the 8th session would pave the way for improved quality standards through collaborative efforts. The Governor pointed out the increasing potential of Assam and the North-East as emerging spice hubs, noting that enhanced processing facilities and export promotion initiatives are crucial for boosting farmers’ incomes and fostering socio-economic development in the region. He praised the collaborative efforts of the Government of India and the Spices Board in strengthening the spice value chain and aligning domestic standards with global benchmarks.
Significance of Spices in Global Trade
During her address, Smt. P. Hemalatha, Secretary of the Spices Board, highlighted the historical significance of spices in shaping global trade and cultural practices. She noted that spices like black pepper, cardamom, turmeric, and cinnamon are not merely flavor enhancers but also represent the cultural essence of various civilizations. Smt. Hemalatha stressed the necessity for harmonized and science-based global standards, especially in light of rapid advancements in food science and technology. She emphasized that unified standards are essential for ensuring safety, fairness in trade, and building consumer trust. Furthermore, she pointed out that Codex standards are vital for promoting transparency, efficiency, and sustainability across the global spice industry.
Economic Impact and Future Projections
Shri Rajit Punhani, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), delivered a special address underscoring the economic and cultural importance of the spice sector. He revealed that the global spice industry, valued at USD 28.5 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to USD 41.9 billion by 2033. He reiterated the importance of harmonized, science-based food standards to ensure consumer safety and promote equitable trade. The session’s discussions are expected to focus on developing new standards for various spices, including large cardamom, sweet marjoram, cinnamon, and dried coriander seeds.
Ongoing Discussions and Future Directions
The inaugural ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Dr. M.R. Sudharshan, Chairperson of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs, and other officials from the Spices Board and FSSAI. Established in 2013, the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs operates under the Codex Alimentarius Commission of the FAO and WHO, with India serving as its Secretariat. To date, Codex has finalized standards for 16 spices. The ongoing session will continue throughout the week, focusing on aligning global standards, enhancing transparency, and promoting sustainable trade practices in the international spice sector.
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