🌿 What Is Cumin? Global Guide to Origins, Uses & 2025 Price Trends

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is a warm-season, annual herb known for its strong aroma and rich flavor. Originating from the Mediterranean and Middle East, it plays a key role in both global cuisine and traditional healing practices.

Cumin seeds — either whole or ground into powder — are widely used in spice blends, meat dishes, rice recipes, and even teas due to their digestive benefits.

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🌱 Cumin Plant: Climate, Cultivation & Characteristics

Cumin belongs to the parsley family (Apiaceae) and typically grows between 40–60 cm tall. It produces delicate white or pink flowers in spring and ripens in summer, at which point its valuable seeds are harvested.

Ideal Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Warm and dry (optimal 20–22°C)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy-loamy
• Rainfall: Low to moderate (300–400 mm annually)

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🌍 Where Is Cumin Grown?

Cumin cultivation spans across continents, but thrives especially in arid and semi-arid regions.

🔹 Top Producing Countries in 2025:

• India – World's largest producer and exporter (70%+ global share)
• Turkey – Major grower in Central Anatolia
• Iran – Traditional and large-scale cumin farming
• Egypt, Syria, Morocco, Mexico – Emerging and regional suppliers

In Turkey, cumin is primarily cultivated in Konya, Eskişehir, and Afyon provinces, where the dry continental climate suits it perfectly.

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💰 Cumin Price per Country (June 2025, Per Kilogram)

Here's a country-based breakdown of current cumin market prices. These include average wholesale and retail figures and reflect market conditions as of June 2025:

🌐 Country	⚖️ Wholesale (USD/kg)	🛒 Retail (USD/kg)
India	$0.34 – $2.87	$0.49 – $4.10
Turkey	$1.73 – $2.42	$2.47 – $3.45
USA	$1.38 – $2.77	$1.98 – $3.96
Iran	$1.10 – $2.00	$1.60 – $2.80
Egypt	$1.40 – $2.50	$1.90 – $3.20
Morocco	$1.25 – $2.10	$1.70 – $3.00

📌 Note: Prices may vary based on product form (whole vs. ground), packaging, and origin. Bulk, unprocessed cumin is often cheaper than retail-packaged or organic-certified options.

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📈 2025 Cumin Market Insights

• Global demand for cumin remains high, driven by its popularity in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mexican cuisines.
• Prices have stabilized in mid-2025 due to favorable harvests in India and Turkey.
• Organic and export-quality cumin commands 20–40% higher prices in retail markets.

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🧾 Conclusion

Cumin is more than just a spice — it's an agricultural asset with strong cultural, culinary, and economic importance. With production centered in India and the Middle East, cumin continues to dominate the global spice trade. As of 2025, its price remains accessible for wholesalers and retailers alike, making it a staple in kitchens and markets worldwide.

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