A NUMBER of key Indian spices are likely to face upward pricing pressure this year, but turmeric is expected to be subject to declines in the second quarter, Kotak Commodity Services said in its annual outlook for commodity markets in 2011. The Mumbai-based trader and analyst recalled that in 2010 turmeric, black pepper, cardamom and red chilli had tested their new life time highs. "Year-on-year black pepper remained the best performer and registered an impressive gain of 57.8% while chilli ranks second with a 54% gain. Cardamom and turmeric gained over 42% and 38% respectively. However, coriander and jeera (cumin seed) prices declined slightly by 5% and 2.2% respectively," the company stated.