Mar 18, 2020
Super food, Turmeric sales to Europe and West Asia have gone up because its medicinal properties are getting renewed attention at the time when the coronavirus is spreading rapidly, traders said.
The demand for raw turmeric has risen sharply in the UK and Germany.
Concerns over the virus have also boosted domestic sales of fruits and vegetables, while the poultry industry is struggling to sell chicken even after a steep fall in prices.
From about 300 kg of raw turmeric by the end of February, the demand has shot up to 3 tonnes a day in March. However, as the air movement has been restricted, the availability of air space for cargo has reduced by about 90%
Raw turmeric is often used with hot milk, which is believed to keep the respiratory system healthy.
The overall jump in export demand for fruits and vegetables has increased by 15%. But exporters said cancellation of flights has made it difficult for the traders to fully take advantage of the opportunity.