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How to Import Cardamom:

The Complete 2025 Guide (Step-by-Step + Documents + Suppliers + Costs)

1. Introduction

Cardamom, often called the “Queen of Spices,” is one of the most valuable aromatic spices in global trade. From food processing companies and spice manufacturers to wholesalers and retailers, international demand for cardamom has been consistently rising.

At ALNADIM EXIM LLP, we specialize in sourcing and exporting premium-quality spices, including Green Cardamom and Black Cardamom. With our industry expertise, we’ve created this comprehensive guide for businesses, traders, and individuals who want to import cardamom safely, legally, and profitably.

Cardamom is one of the world’s most valuable spices—often called the “Queen of Spices.”
Demand has skyrocketed globally due to its use in:

Food and beverages
Bakery and confectionery
Ayurvedic and herbal medicines
Essential oils and perfumes
Coffee and tea blends
FMCG flavoring

If you want to import cardamom from top-producing countries such as Guatemala, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, or Tanzania, you need a proper understanding of international trade regulations, documentation, grading, and quality control.

This guide gives you everything you need, from finding suppliers to calculating landed cost, to avoid loss and ensure profitable imports.

2. What Is Cardamom? A Quick Overview

Cardamom belongs to the Zingiberaceae family (same as ginger).
There are two main types:

Green Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) – premium, aromatic
Black Cardamom (Amomum subulatum) – smoky, stronger flavor

Cardamom is sold in many forms:

Whole pods
Seeds
Powder
Oil
Oleoresin

As an importer, understanding the type, grade, and origin helps you choose the right product for your target market.

3. Global Market Overview: Why Import Cardamom in 2025?

3.1 Rising Global Consumption

Cardamom demand has increased in:

Middle East (highest consumption per capita)
Europe (flavored tea & bakery)
US & Canada (coffee blends, health products)
Asia (food & ayurveda)

3.2 High Profit Potential

Cardamom margins range from 20% to 60% depending on grade, season, and importing country.

3.3 Supply–Demand Gap

Global production fluctuates due to:

Weather sensitivity
High cultivation costs
Labour-intensive harvesting

Importing cardamom at the right time gives traders huge profitability.

4. Types of Cardamom You Can Import

4.1 Green Cardamom (Most Popular in Global Trade)

Grades include:

Super Bold (8 mm+)
Bold (7–8 mm)
Superior / AAA
Fancy / A Grade
AGEB / AGS / AGS 1
Small / Medium / Mix Quality

4.2 Black Cardamom

Used in:

Masala blends
Biryanis
Pickles
Traditional medicine

4.3 Ground Cardamom Powder

Higher risk of adulteration; ensure lab testing.

4.4 Cardamom Oil & Oleoresin

High-value products for pharmaceuticals and perfumes.

5. Major Cardamom Producing Countries

5.1 Guatemala (Largest Producer)

Best for bulk & competitive prices
Grades: Mixed, Bold, Green, and Superior

5.2 India

Known for premium quality
Main regions: Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu

5.3 Nepal

Famous for Black Cardamom
Strong aroma, widely exported to China & Middle East

5.4 Sri Lanka

High-flavor green cardamom, niche market

5.5 Tanzania / Laos / Vietnam

Growing global presence

6. How to Choose a Reliable Cardamom Supplier

Checklist

✔ Check exporter license
✔ Verify trade history (B2B platforms, customs data)
✔ Ask for lab test reports
✔ Inspect product samples
✔ Confirm moisture and pesticide levels
✔ Evaluate packaging standards
✔ Check warehouse and drying facility
✔ Request references from previous buyers

Where to Find Suppliers

Spices Board Listings
Export Promotion Councils
Direct farm networks
Spice fairs (Gulfood, BioFach, SIAL)

7. Step-by-Step Process to Import Cardamom

Step 1: Register Your Import Business

Depending on your country:

Import license
Business trade certificate
GST/VAT registration
IEC number (India)

Step 2: Identify the Cardamom Type & Quantity

Decide:

Whole pods or powder
Green or black
Grade (e.g., 7mm premium)
Required monthly volume

Step 3: Get Quotations From Suppliers

Ask for:

FOB price
MOQ
Payment terms
Delivery time
Packaging details

Step 4: Request Samples

Check:

Aroma
Color
Moisture content
Size consistency
Absence of mold

Step 5: Negotiate Price and Terms

Standard payment methods:

LC (Letter of Credit)
TT advance + balance after inspection
Escrow (for small orders)

Step 6: Finalize Contract

Include:

Quality parameters
Moisture limits
Packaging standards
Penalty clause
Delivery timeline

Step 7: Arrange Inspection

Third-party inspectors:

SGS
Intertek
Bureau Veritas

Step 8: Shipping & Logistics

Modes:

Sea freight (cheapest for bulk)
Air freight (fast, expensive)

Step 9: Customs Clearance

Provide documents:

Bill of lading
Invoice
COO
Health certificates

Step 10: Receive Cargo & Quality Check

Ensure product meets contract standards.

8. Documents Required to Import Cardamom

Exporter Documents

Invoice
Packing list
Phytosanitary certificate
Certificate of Origin
Fumigation certificate
Lab test report
Insurance

Importer Documents

Import license
Bill of Entry
Tax registration (GST/VAT)
Purchase order
Customs duty payment

Mandatory Food Safety Documents

FDA (for U.S.)
FSSAI (for India)
EU Food Safety Certificate

9. Packaging, Grading & Quality Standards

Packaging Options

5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg bags (food-grade)
Vacuum packing for premium grades
Moisture-proof poly bags

Quality Parameters

Moisture < 11%
No mold, pests, or fungus
Uniform color
Proper drying
No adulteration

10. Import Duty, HS Codes & Tariffs

HS Code for Cardamom

090831 – Green Cardamom
090832 – Black Cardamom
090830 – Ground cardamom

Duties vary by country:

Custom duty
Import tax (GST/VAT)
Port charges
FSSAI/FDA fees

11. Shipping Methods & Cost Breakdown

Sea Freight

Most economical for quantities above 500 kg.

Air Freight

Used for urgent shipments or premium grade (super bold).

Cost Components

Spice cost
Packaging
Inland transport
Freight
Port handling
Duty
Customs brokerage fees

Landed Cost Calculation

Landed cost =
Product price + Freight + Insurance + Duty + Taxes + Clearing Charges

12. Common Mistakes Importers Make

❌ Not inspecting goods before shipment
❌ Buying powder → highest adulteration risk
❌ Ignoring moisture levels
❌ Not understanding seasonal price fluctuations
❌ Not verifying supplier authenticity

13. How to Avoid Fraud When Importing Spices

Buy only from registered exporters
Use LC for high-value orders
Verify with customs export data
Request video inspection
Avoid unrealistically low prices
Use third-party QA teams

14. Storage, Handling & Shelf Life

Ideal Storage

Cool, dry place
Airtight containers
Away from sunlight

Shelf Life

Whole pods: 12–24 months
Powder: 6 months
Oil: 2–3 years

15. Profit Margin in Cardamom Import Business

Typical margins:

Retail: 20–40%
Wholesale: 10–25%
Premium grades: 40–60%

Margins vary depending on:

Season
Grade
Country of origin
Shipping costs

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Best Quality of Cardamom

At ALNADIM EXIM LLP, we understand that cardamom is more than just a spice—it is a global commodity that drives massive demand across food, FMCG, beverage, pharmaceutical, and wellness industries. As global consumption increases every year, importers are looking for reliable ways to source premium-quality cardamom at competitive rates.

This guide is designed specifically for businesses and entrepreneurs who want to start or scale their cardamom import operations. With over a decade of combined trade experience, ALNADIM EXIM LLP brings clarity, structure, and actionable insights that help you import confidently and compliantly.

Why Import Cardamom in 2025?

1. Consistent Global Demand

Cardamom remains one of the top-selling spices across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and America. Its use in tea, coffee blends, bakery items, confectionery, fragrances, and herbal medicines keeps demand strong year-round.

2. High Profit Margins

Cardamom is a premium crop. Depending on the grade and origin, importers typically earn 20%–60% profit margin, making it a highly lucrative commodity.

3. Supply Challenges Create Opportunities

Because cardamom is extremely sensitive to climate, global production fluctuates—creating seasonal price gaps that smart importers can capitalize on.

As ALNADIM EXIM LLP, we specialize in identifying the right sourcing windows so our clients benefit from the best quality at the right price.

Understanding Cardamom: Types & Grades

Before importing, it is essential to know what the market wants. Cardamom is available in different forms, and each one serves a unique purpose.

1. Green Cardamom (Premium Grade)

Preferred in:

Gulf countries
USA & Europe
Food & beverage industries

Common grades:

Super Bold (8mm+)
Bold (7–8mm)
AGEB / AGS
A / B / C commercial mixes

2. Black Cardamom

Widely consumed in:

India, Nepal, Bangladesh
Masala manufacturers
Meat processing

3. Cardamom Powder

Useful for:

Bakeries
Tea/coffee premixes
Ice-cream manufacturers

4. Essential Oil & Oleoresin

High-value extracts used in:

Perfumes
Ayurveda
Pharmaceuticals

At ALNADIM EXIM LLP, we source each variety through verified farms, trusted processors, and certified exporters globally.

We are the Supplier of Best Quality CARDAMOM at best price sourcing directly from the farmers.

Contact email [email protected] of Whats app + 91 7045184773

Best Countries to Import Cardamom From

1. Guatemala

World’s largest producer with attractive pricing for bulk buyers.
Perfect for wholesalers and repackagers.

2. India

Known for premium aroma, rich flavor, and uniform grading.
Ideal for high-end retail and FMCG brands.

3. Nepal

Specializes in smoky, aromatic Black Cardamom with export-grade quality.

4. Sri Lanka, Tanzania & Vietnam

Upcoming suppliers gaining global visibility.

At ALNADIM EXIM LLP, we maintain a vetted supplier network across all these markets ensuring consistent supply and premium quality.

How to Import Cardamom (Step-by-Step Guide)

This structured process is tailored to make importing easier, even for beginners.

Step 1: Business Registration & Import License

You will need:

Import Export Code (IEC)
Business registration
GST/VAT (depending on your country)
Food safety registration

ALNADIM EXIM LLP helps clients understand documentation requirements based on their destination country.

Step 2: Identify Cardamom Grade & Target Market

Ask yourself:

Who is buying from you?
Do they need green or black?
Retail or industrial use?
Premium or price-sensitive quality?

We assist with selecting the right grade based on your customer segment.

Step 3: Request a Quotation From Verified Suppliers

A proper quotation includes:

FOB price
Packaging
Moisture %
Payment terms
HS code
Transit time

With our global network, ALNADIM EXIM LLP ensures transparent, competitive, and verified pricing.

Step 4: Sample Evaluation

Check:

Aroma
Color consistency
Pod size
Moisture
Freshness
Drying quality

We coordinate sample dispatch and quality checks through certified labs if required.

Step 5: Contract, Payment & Final Negotiation

We recommend:

LC (Letter of Credit) for large shipments
Advance + balance after inspection for medium orders
Secure Escrow options for new buyers

ALNADIM EXIM LLP assists in drafting trade-safe contracts.

Step 6: Third-Party Inspection

Inspection companies include:

SGS
Intertek
Bureau Veritas

We arrange end-to-end QC to protect your investment.

Step 7: Shipping & Logistics Management

You can choose:

Sea Freight (cheapest for bulk)
Air Freight (fastest for premium retail orders)

We manage:

Freight booking
Insurance
Port handling
Export documentation

Step 8: Customs Clearance & Local Delivery

Documents required:

Invoice
Packing list
Phytosanitary certificate
Certificate of Origin
Fumigation certificate
Bill of Lading
Insurance copy

We support smooth clearance with minimal delays.

Quality Standards & Compliance

Global Quality Benchmarks

Moisture < 11%
Uniform color
Zero mold or fungus
Food-grade packaging
No pesticide contamination

Certifications We Work With

ISO
HACCP
FSSAI
FDA
GMP
Organic certifications

ALNADIM EXIM LLP ensures your cargo meets your country’s compliance standards.

Profit Margins in Cardamom Import Business

Margin varies by grade, season, and market.

Typical profits:

Wholesale: 10–25%
Retail: 20–40%
Premium grades: 40–60%

Our clients often achieve higher margins through strategic sourcing windows we identify for them.

Here are the main challenges faced in cardamom import, explained clearly and practically so you can anticipate and avoid them:

We are the Supplier of Best Quality CARDAMOM at best price sourcing directly from the farmers in Bulk.

Contact email [email protected] of Whats app + 91 7045184773

Top Challenges in Cardamom Import

1. High Price Volatility

Cardamom prices fluctuate heavily due to:

Seasonal supply
Weather conditions
Crop failures
Export restrictions
Market speculation

Price may rise or fall sharply within weeks, affecting profit margins.

2. Quality Inconsistency

Common quality problems:

Color fading
High moisture content
Mold/fungal contamination
Mixed or adulterated grade
Inaccurate size grading

Without proper supplier verification, buyers may receive lower grade material.

3. Moisture & Fungus Issues During Shipping

Cardamom easily absorbs moisture.
If packing is poor:

Pods turn pale
Fungus develops
Aroma reduces

Quality deteriorates quickly, especially in long sea shipments.

4. Fraudulent or Unreliable Suppliers

Some traders:

Ship different quality than agreed
Mix high-grade with low-grade
Ask for full payment and disappear
Provide fake documents

New importers are especially at risk.

5. Complicated Import Documentation

Cardamom requires:

Phytosanitary certificate
Certificate of origin
Fumigation certificate
Lab tests
Customs declarations

Incorrect paperwork leads to:

Port delays
Demurrage charges
Rejection or return of goods

6. Customs Clearance Delays

Reasons include:

Missing documents
Incorrect HS code
Random customs inspection
Food safety authority checks

Delays increase storage costs and damage quality.

7. High Import Duties & Taxes

Depending on the country, duties can be high.
This increases the landed cost, affecting competitiveness.

8. Shipping Delays & Logistics Issues

Problems include:

Container shortages
Port congestion
Weather delays
Increased freight rates

These factors disrupt delivery schedules.

9. Poor Packaging From Exporter

If cardamom is packed in:

Thin bags
Improper sealing
Non–moisture-proof sacks

…it can lose aroma and color.

10. Aflatoxin & Food Safety Compliance

Some countries (EU, USA, Middle East) have very strict limits for:

Aflatoxin
Pesticide residues
Microbial load

Non-compliance leads to:

Shipment rejection
Re-export
Heavy financial loss

11. Currency Exchange Fluctuation

Exchange rate changes affect:

Profitability
Cost planning
Contract stability

12. Limited Supplier Transparency

Some exporters avoid sharing:

Origin details
Farm sources
Test reports
Packaging specs

This makes quality assurance difficult.

13. Political or Trade Restrictions

Export bans or government policies in producing countries can disrupt supply.

Summary

Importing cardamom is profitable but involves challenges such as:

Price swings
Quality risks
Supplier fraud
Documentation issues
Customs delays
Food safety compliance

With the right exporter, inspection, and documentation, these challenges can be minimized.

Importing cardamom from India to the USA can be highly profitable, but the exact profit depends on several cost components such as sourcing price, freight, duty, packaging, and market selling price.

Below is a clear, practical profit calculation based on current industry averages (not real-time pricing).

✅ Typical Profit Margin When Importing Cardamom India → USA

Most importers make 15% to 40% profit, depending on:

Grade (6mm, 7mm, 8mm)
Quantity
Packaging
Target customers (wholesalers vs. retailers)
Selling channel (Amazon, distributors, spice stores, food processors)

Premium grades like 7.5mm+ and 8mm offer the highest margins.

📌 Sample Profit Calculation (Realistic Example)

Below is a step-by-step calculation to estimate your profit.

⭐ 1. Cost in India (per kg)

FOB India price for Green Cardamom (7–8mm): $23–$32 per kg
Average: $28 per kg

⭐ 2. Freight Cost (Sea Freight to USA)

Sea shipping (large shipment): $0.8–$1.2 per kg
Use average: $1.0 per kg

⭐ 3. USA Import Duty

Typical customs duty on cardamom entering USA: 0–3%
Use 2% for estimate:
→ 2% of $28 = $0.56 per kg

⭐ 4. USA Port Charges + Customs Broker

$400–$600 per shipment
Approx: $0.50 per kg

⭐ 5. Local Transport + Warehouse + Misc

Approx: $0.50 per kg

📌 Total Landed Cost in USA

FOB India: $28.00
Freight: $1.00
Duty: $0.56
Port + Broker: $0.50
Local logistics: $0.50

👉 Total Landed Cost = $30.56 per kg (rounded to $31)

📌 Selling Price in USA

Cardamom retail/wholesale price in USA:

Market Type	Selling Price
Wholesaler bulk 25+ kg	$38–$48 per kg
Ethnic grocery stores	$50–$65 per kg
Amazon retail packs	$70–$110 per kg
Premium organic retail	$110–$125 per kg

Let’s use wholesale (the safest assumption):

👉 Selling Price (Wholesale) = $45 per kg

📌 Your Profit per kg

Selling price: $45
Landed cost: $31

👉 Profit = $14 per kg

💰 Profit Margin = ~45% (gross)

📌 Profit for a 1-ton shipment (1,000 kg)

$14 profit × 1,000 kg = $14,000 profit per shipment

📌 Profit for a 5-ton shipment

$14 × 5,000 kg = $70,000 profit

🎯 What Increases Profit?

Selling small packs (100g, 200g) instead of bulk
Adding private label packaging
Selling on Amazon USA
Importing bigger sizes (7.5mm–8mm)
Offering organic-certified varieties
Targeting Arab, Indian, Pakistani communities in USA

Retail packaging can double or triple the profit.

🎯 What Reduces Profit?

Poor quality or color fading
High freight cost
Excessive moisture or fungus
Selling only to large wholesalers
Market price fall

⭐ Final Answer (Easy Summary)

💵 Profit importing cardamom from India to USA:

➡️ $12–$18 profit per kg
➡️ 15–40% margin
➡️ $14,000 profit per 1-ton shipment

Below is a clear, realistic, and practical profit calculation for importing cardamom from India to the United Kingdom (UK).
This includes all major costs, typical UK selling prices, and final margin estimates.

✅ Average Profit Margin When Importing Cardamom India → UK

Most importers make:

18% to 45% profit margin

(depending on grade, packaging, and sales channel)

Premium grades (7.5mm to 8mm) give the highest profit.

📌 Sample Profit Calculation (Realistic Example)

Below is a detailed, step-by-step breakdown.

⭐ 1. Cost in India (per kg)

Indian Green Cardamom (7–8 mm):

$23–$32 per kg FOB India
Average assumed: $28 per kg

⭐ 2. Freight Cost (Sea Freight to UK)

Large shipments:

$0.70–$1.20 per kg

Use average: $1 per kg

⭐ 3. UK Import Duty + VAT

Import Duty

For HS code 0908:

UK duty ranges 0–8%, depending on agreements.
Average: 5%

→ Duty = 5% of $28 = $1.40 per kg

VAT

UK VAT = 20%
VAT is charged on (Cost + Duty + Freight), but importers reclaim VAT later, so VAT does not reduce actual profit.
(So we will ignore VAT in profit calculations.)

⭐ 4. UK Port Charges + Customs Broker

£350–£600 per container
Approx average: $0.50 per kg

⭐ 5. Local Transport + Warehouse + Misc

Approx: $0.60 per kg

📌 Total Landed Cost in UK per kg

FOB India: $28.00
Freight: $1.00
Duty: $1.40
Port + Broker: $0.50
Local logistics: $0.60

👉 Total Landed Cost = $31.50 per kg

⭐ 6. Selling Price of Cardamom in the UK

Cardamom is very expensive in the UK market.

Market Type	Selling Price (per kg)
Bulk wholesale (10–25kg bags)	$40–$55
Ethnic stores (Asian, Middle Eastern)	$60–$80
Branded retail packs	$85–$120
Organic premium packs	$120–$150

We will use the most realistic average wholesale price: $50/kg.

⭐ 7. Profit per kg

Selling Price: $50
Landed Cost: $31.50

👉 Profit = $18.50 per kg

👉 Profit Margin = ~37%

📌 Profit for 1-Ton Shipment (1,000 kg)

$18.50 × 1,000 =

⭐ $18,500 profit

📌 Profit for 5 Tons

$18.50 × 5,000 =

⭐ $92,500 profit

🎯 What Can Increase Profit?

Selling smaller packs (100g, 200g) — profit doubles
Selling through Amazon UK
Premium 8mm bold cardamom
Organic cardamom (very high demand)
Private label brand
Targeting Indian, Pakistani, Arab grocery stores
Selling to tea companies & spice blenders

Retail packaging can increase profit to 60–120% margin.

🎯 What Can Reduce Profit?

Poor-quality or mixed cardamom
Color fading during transit
Fluctuating global prices
High moisture or fungus
UK customs inspection delays
Increased freight cost

⭐ Final Summary

💵 Profit importing cardamom from India to UK:

➡️ $15–$22 per kg
➡️ 18–45% gross margin
➡️ $18,500 profit per ton
➡️ $92,500 profit per 5 tons

Common Mistakes New Importers Make

❌ Buying powder (highest adulteration risk)
❌ Choosing cheapest supplier instead of verified ones
❌ Ignoring moisture and storage conditions
❌ No third-party inspection
❌ Not understanding seasonal price cycles

Our guidance prevents all of these risks.

Why Choose ALNADIM EXIM LLP for Cardamom Imports?

✓ Verified Global Supplier Network

We work only with trusted farms, processors, and exporters.

✓ Transparent Pricing & Ethical Sourcing

Zero middlemen. Zero hidden charges.

✓ End-to-End Import Support

From sourcing → documentation → QC → shipping → delivery.

✓ Strong Industry Expertise

Extensive experience in spices, agro-products, and international trade.

✓ Reliability & Long-Term Partnerships

We focus on building trust and offering consistent supply year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is cardamom import profitable?

Yes—especially for green cardamom, profit margins range from 20% to 60%.

2. How do I avoid fraud when importing?

Use verified exporters, inspect goods before shipment, and never rely on very low-price offers.

3. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

Typically 50–500 kg for beginners, and 1–20 tons for wholesalers.

4. How long does shipping take?

Sea freight: 20–35 days
Air freight: 3–7 days

Q1. Can I import cardamom without an import license?

No. Food imports require proper licensing.

Q2. Is importing green cardamom profitable?

Yes, especially premium grades from India and Guatemala.

Q3. How do I find legitimate suppliers?

Use trade portals, inspection agencies, and government-listed exporters.

Q4. How much capital is needed?

Starting capital: $3,000–$50,000 depending on order size.

Q5. Which country provides the cheapest cardamom?

Guatemala offers competitive pricing; India offers best premium quality.

Conclusion

Importing cardamom is one of the most profitable business opportunities in the global spice trade. With the right partners, proper documentation, and reliable supply channels, you can build a sustainable business with strong year-round demand.

At ALNADIM EXIM LLP, we don’t just source products—we deliver trust, consistency, and long-term value. If you are planning to import cardamom or expand your spice portfolio, our team is ready to support you at every step.

Importing cardamom is a highly profitable business when done correctly. With global demand rising, it presents enormous opportunities for traders, wholesalers, FMCG companies, and spice processors.

By understanding suppliers, documents, duties, shipping, and quality control, you can build a successful and long-term cardamom import business.