Did Trump’s Tariff Policies Impact Cardamom Prices?

Cardamom is a globally valued spice, primarily produced in India (especially Idukki, Kerala) and Guatemala. It is used extensively in culinary, medicinal, and aromatic applications. But did the tariff war initiated by former US President Donald Trump have any impact on cardamom prices? Let’s explore.

 Trump Tariff Policies — A Quick Recap

Between 2018 and 2019, the Trump administration imposed high import tariffs on a wide range of products, mainly targeting imports from China, Mexico, and the European Union, in an effort to reduce the US trade deficit.

Was Cardamom Directly Affected?

No.Cardamom was not part of the product categories targeted by Trump’s tariff lists. Being a niche agricultural product imported in relatively small volumes, cardamom from India or Guatemala did not face any direct import duty hikes during that period.

Market Reality

• India exports cardamom worth over ₹1000 crores annually.

• Around 80% goes to the Middle East, and 10–15% to USA/Europe.

• There’s no direct evidence showing that Trump tariffs alone caused a major price drop in cardamom.

Conclusion:

Trump’s tariffs did not directly affect cardamom prices. However, global uncertainty during the tariff war may have led to minor disruptions in demand, pricing, and shipping.