PRICES of cardamom have witnessed a declining trend in major Indian markets, particularly Kerala, following sufficient summer rain in the growing areas, which has boosted expectations of a good crop. Bearish sentiment at the auctions saw average prices initially dropping to Rs1,140 ($25.16) a kg from Rs1,175 a kg, and further to just Rs1,116 a kg on Monday at the auction held in Bodinayakannur. The individual auction average vacillated between Rs1,130 and Rs1,175 a kg in the week ending April 30, resulting in slack demand as buyers stayed away. Exporters also kept away from the market as prices remained consistently above the psychological barrier of Rs1,100 per kg. A few upcountry traders covered whatever quantities arrived at the auction... Read More