Guatemala Strengthens Position as No. 1 Cardamom Exporter Worldwide

Cardamom in Guatemala continues to strengthen its global leadership as the country remains the world’s top exporter of the spice, supplying more than 50% of international demand and reinforcing one of the most important agricultural industries for its economy.

Guatemala Dominates the Global Cardamom Trade

Recent data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) shows that Guatemala exported 28,321 tons of cardamom in 2024, generating US$496.6 million in export value. By the end of 2025, international prices had also shown a notable recovery.

Guatemala’s strong position in the global cardamom market has been driven by product quality and consistent demand from strategic international buyers.

Middle East and Asia Drive Demand

Among the leading destinations for Guatemalan cardamom exports are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, according to records from FAO and trade intelligence platforms such as Tridge and the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC).

Demand from these markets has played a key role in sustaining export growth and supporting price recovery after previous declines.

Production Levels Keep Guatemala Ahead

FAO reported that Guatemala produced approximately 95,210 metric tons of cardamom in 2023, representing 43.43% of global production for the crop.

The same report noted that Guatemala accounted for nearly 53% of the total global export value of cardamom, significantly ahead of other producers such as India and Sri Lanka.

Prices Rebounded in 2025

According to Tridge, the export price of Guatemalan cardamom ranged between US$5.06 and US$6.17 per kilogram during 2025.

This reflects a recovery in international pricing following weaker years and was supported by renewed demand from Saudi Arabia and other major importing markets.

“The export price of Guatemalan cardamom showed fluctuations, but closed 2025 on an upward trend, driven by the reactivation of demand in Saudi Arabia and other key markets,” Tridge reported.

Key Exporters and Rising Revenue

Cardamom exports remain an important source of foreign currency for Guatemala.

Companies including:

• DESAI&CO PTE LTD
• PEARL LINE TRADING
• BIXA SOCIEDAD ANÓNIMA
• and MONTE DE ORO are listed among the main exporters, according to OEC monitoring.

In 2023, cardamom exports reached US$365 million, while in 2024 the figure climbed to US$496.6 million.

This growth has been linked to stronger international prices and rising demand across the Middle East and South Asia.

Challenges for the Industry

Despite the positive momentum, reports from Tridge and FAO indicate that the sector still faces challenges tied to environmental sustainability and labor conditions in producing regions.

International organizations have also emphasized the need to promote responsible agricultural practices and improve product traceability to secure Guatemala’s long-term leadership.

A Strategic Export Product for Guatemala

According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity, cardamom is one of Guatemala’s leading agricultural exports, alongside coffee and bananas.

The country has maintained its top position through a combination of production experience, favorable agroecological conditions, partial sector modernization, and strong trade links with high-volume importers.