Workshop on sustainable growth of spices

KOCHI: A one-day workshop on the need for sustainable growth of spices in the state is being organised jointly by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Cell, the Department of Agriculture, Spices Board and World Spice Organisation on January 20.The workshop will be held at Bolghatty Palace Hotel. Spice farmers from various parts of the state, spices exporters, traders and scientists from Kerala Agriculture University, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Spices Board and Directorate of Coco Arecanut and Spices will take part.The global demand for spices has increased and the need to consolidate and maintain the country’s position as a world leader in the sector is gaining importance. There is a shortage in supplies, especially the quantity that is available for exports. The reports from April to August 2011 indicate that the hike in export value is 26 per cent but quantity-wise there is a fall of 23 per cent. The joint venture opens a platform to discuss matters and chalk out action plans related to the improvement and enhancement of production of better quality spices, especially black pepper, cardamom, ginger, turmeric and nutmeg. The availability of good quality produce in sufficient quantities, the problem of pesticide residues, presence of aflatoxin and illegal dyes are issues that need to be resolved.The focus of the workshop will be on promotion of cultivation and quality assurance to increase export, discuss major challenges in spices trade, developmental programmes, field problems, research interventions and practical knowledge of farmers.