When buying cardamom from India, the most important step is to agree on grade, quality parameters and packaging before requesting a quotation. Indian green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is the primary export type and comes in several capsule-size grades. Buy quality from an APEDA-registered and Spices Board registered exporter who can provide the required documentation, including certificates, commercial invoice and phytosanitary certificate where required.
1. Cardamom varieties produced in India
India is one of the world's leading producers of green cardamom (Elettria cardamomum), primarily grown in the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
The main export types are:
- Green cardamom (Malabar): Small, aromatic pods with high volatile oil content — the premium export variety.
- Lesser cardamom: Related species (Amomum spp.) with a different flavor profile, less commonly exported.
- Black cardamom: A larger, smokier variety (Amomum subulatum) — a distinct product with different culinary uses.
2. Cardamom grades and sizing
Indian green cardamom is graded by capsule size and capsule count per kilogram. While specific grade names can vary between exporters, the common categories used in international trade are:
| Grade | Typical capsule count / kg | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Bold | ~750-900 capsules | Largest capsules, premium grade |
| Bold | ~900-1,100 capsules | Large capsules, good quality |
| Medium | ~1,100-1,350 capsules | Standard commercial grade |
| Small | ~1,350-1,700 capsules | Smaller capsules, good value |
| Sifted | Varies | Passed through a sieve, even size |
Confirm the exact grading standard, capsule count and size range with your supplier in the commercial specification before ordering.
3. Quality parameters buyers should specify
For a premium spice like cardamom, quality must be defined up front. Buyers should agree on the following parameters with the exporter:
| Parameter | Typical specification range | Buyer consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture | 10-12% max | Confirm test method |
| Total ash | 5-8% max | On dry basis |
| Volatile oil | 4-7% min | Affects aroma and value |
| Foreign matter | 1% max | Visible seeds, stems, debris |
| Infested / damaged | 2% max | Insect damage, mold |
| Capsule integrity | Fresh, intact pods | Crushing affects shelf life |
Laboratory testing by an accredited lab (NABL in India) is recommended, especially for large orders. See our guide on reading lab reports for details.
4. Packaging for export
Cardamom capsules are fragile and aromatic, so packaging must protect them from moisture, physical damage and aroma loss during transit.
- Inner packaging: Food-grade polypropylene bags or multi-layer pouches with moisture barriers, sealed inside corrugated cartons.
- Pallet type: Export-grade wooden or plywood pallets, ISPM-15 compliant if wood.
- Container loading: Stretch-wrapped for stability, with moisture barriers for sea freight.
Confirm packaging specifications, including net weight per package and total package count, in the quotation.
5. Export documentation from India
For cardamom exports from India, the essential documents typically include:
- Commercial Invoice: Details the transaction, value and parties.
- Packing List: Matches packages to the invoice.
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill: Transport document and receipt.
- Shipping Bill: Customs export declaration filed in India.
- Phytosanitary Certificate: Required by many destinations; issued by the National Plant Protection Organization.
- Certificate of Origin: Confirms Indian origin for customs duty benefits.
- Spices Board / APEDA registration: Confirms exporter eligibility.
Confirm all required documents with the exporter and your customs broker before the shipment is finalized.
6. Shipping and logistics
India's major spice-export ports handle cardamom shipments to destinations worldwide. Key considerations:
- Port of export: Cochin (Cochin Port) and Chennai are the primary ports for cardamom exports.
- Sea freight: FCL (Full Container Load) recommended for larger volumes; LCL for smaller shipments.
- Air freight: Faster transit for high-value or urgent shipments.
- Transit time: Typically 25-35 days to Europe, 12-20 days to the Middle East, 15-25 days to North America.
- Insurance: Consider cargo insurance covering transit risks.
7. Pricing and payment terms
Cardamom prices fluctuate based on harvest results, quality, market demand and seasonal factors. When comparing quotations:
- Compare on the same grade, specification and packaging.
- Agree on the Incoterm (FOB, CIF, etc.) and named port.
- Clarify which party pays for quality testing and certification.
- Standard payment: 30% advance, 70% against shipping documents (irrevocable LC at sight preferred by most exporters).
See our Incoterms guide for a detailed comparison of common trade terms.
8. Cardamom buyer checklist
Use this checklist before placing your order:
Tell us your requirement.
Share your required grade, quantity, packaging, destination and preferred commercial basis. Our team can review the requirement and discuss the appropriate quotation basis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cardamom
India produces green cardamom, primarily the Malabar variety, which is the main export type. Smaller volumes of lesser cardamom and related varieties are also produced. Green cardamom from India is often referred to as Malabar green cardamom and is known for its high oil content and distinct aroma.
Indian green cardamom is typically graded as Extra Bold, Bold, Medium, Small and Sifted, with further splits based on capsule size and capsule count per kilogram. The exact grade names can vary between exporters, so buyers should confirm the specific grading standard in the commercial specification.
Typical cardamom quality parameters include moisture content, total ash, volatile oil percentage, capsule integrity, absence of mold and foreign matter, and color retention. Buyers should specify the acceptable ranges for each parameter before placing the order.
Cardamom is typically exported in food-grade polypropylene bags or cartons with inner polyethylene liners, often palletized with protective stretch wrapping. The packaging should be moisture-resistant and pest-proof to protect the capsule integrity during transit.
Required documents typically include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and shipping bill. Depending on the destination, a phytosanitary certificate, Spices Board registration, fumigation certificate and origin certificate may also be required.
Cardamom is an important spice crop regulated by the Directorate of Foreign Trade. Export requires an Importer Exporter Code and may require an export license depending on the destination and volume. Buyers should confirm current export procedures with their exporter.
Green cardamom refers to Elettaria cardamomum, the small cardamom with pale green pods and intense aroma. Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) is a larger, smokier variety typically used differently in cooking. The two are distinct products with different market values.
Transit time depends on the destination, port, carrier and routing. As a general guide, sea freight from India can take approximately 25-35 days to Europe, 12-20 days to the Middle East and 15-25 days to North America, but buyers should confirm the actual schedule for their specific shipment.
Cardamom should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odours. The packaging should remain sealed until use to preserve the volatile oil content and aroma. Proper storage helps maintain capsule integrity and quality during the shelf life.
Some Indian exporters can supply organic-certified cardamom. Buyers should confirm the certification body, scope and validity of the organic certificate, and check that the certification is recognised in the destination market before placing an order.
Official sources consulted
Regulatory and compliance statements in this guide should be verified against the latest official requirements applicable to the specific product and destination.
Spices Board India · DGFT — Directorate General of Foreign Trade · FSSAI — Food Safety and Standards Authority of India