Spices; cardamoms, neither crushed nor ground

HS code 090831 covers the trade of whole, unground cardamom spices. Cardamom is a highly valued spice that is widely used in various cuisines, particularly in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking. As a key ingredient in many traditional dishes, the global demand for high-quality cardamom has remained strong, making it an important agricultural commodity in the international trade of spices.

Cardamom is primarily cultivated in tropical regions, with major producers including India, Guatemala, and Sri Lanka. The spice is harvested from the seed pods of the cardamom plant, which are carefully hand-picked when they reach maturity. After harvesting, the pods are typically dried using traditional methods, such as sun-drying or using specialized drying chambers, to preserve their flavor and aroma. The dried pods are then sorted, graded, and packaged for distribution and export.

The production of whole, unground cardamom (HS 090831) requires several key inputs. These include the cardamom plant itself, which is typically grown in tropical, high-altitude regions with well-drained soil and ample rainfall. Specialized farming equipment, such as pruning shears and drying facilities, are also necessary for the harvesting and post-harvest processing of the spice. Additionally, labor-intensive manual handling is often required throughout the production process.

The primary output of HS code 090831 is whole, unground cardamom spice. This product is widely used in various culinary applications, such as in curries, rice dishes, baked goods, and beverages. Cardamom is also used in the production of essential oils and fragrances. The output of HS 090831 may be consumed by other HS codes, such as 210390 Preparations for sauces and other condiment preparations; mixed condiments and mixed seasonings, 330124 Essential oils of other citrus fruit, and 330129 Essential oils, other than those of citrus fruit.