Spice Consumption Trends in Europe & Middle East
Explore evolving spice consumption trends across Europe and the Middle East, and discover how Indian exporters—particularly from Gujarat—can seize these booming opportunities.
Introduction

Europe and the Middle East are undergoing a flavorful transformation, with increasing appetites for spices driven by cultural fusion, health awareness, and rising demand for authentic culinary experiences. As a global leader in spice exports, India—especially Gujarat—is uniquely positioned to meet this rising demand. This blog explores consumption patterns, emerging opportunities, and how Strivex Global can be your trusted partner in navigating this dynamic export landscape.

Europe’s Rising Appetite for Spices

Europe’s seasoning and spices market continues to grow steadily:

  • In 2025, the Europe seasoning market was valued at USD 6.5 billion, expected to reach USD 8.08 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.46%.
  • Another projection estimates the broader herbs and spices market in Europe at USD 38 billion in 2025, rising to USD 54.1 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 3.6%.
  • Demand is being driven by health-conscious consumers embracing clean-label, organic, and multicultural spice blends—especially in sauces, dressings, ready meals, and savory snacks.
  • GermanyUKFrance, and Italy remain key markets, with consumers increasingly seeking authentic flavor, sustainable sourcing, and traceability.
Spices Driving Middle East Markets

The Middle East remains a rich consumption region for spices like cardamom, saffron, cumin, and black pepper:

  • The UAE serves as a major re-export hub for Indian spices, distributing them to Europe and Africa.
  • Cardamom—known as the “Queen of Spices”—is in high demand due to expanding South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine influence in Europe. India supplies nearly 9% of Europe’s cardamom imports, particularly niche organic and Fairtrade variations.
Why Indian Spices Are Dominating These Regions

India enjoys a dominant position in global spice exports:

  • Indian spice exports exceeded USD 4.3 billion in FY 2023–24, and the country contributes more than 70% of global spice exports.
  • The India spice market itself is projected to grow from about USD 8.4 billion in 2024 to USD 17.04 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 8.16%.
  • India’s strength lies in its unmatched variety—turmeric, cumin, cardamom, chili—and quality, especially organic, ethically sourced produce.
Key Opportunities for Indian Exporters

European and Middle Eastern markets are ripe with opportunity:

  • Europe increasingly values sustainabilityfood safety, and traceability. Suppliers aligned with clean, ethical sourcing practices are preferred.
  • Innovation in spice mixesready-to-use blends, and functional herbal ingredients is growing rapidly.
  • Middle Eastern buyers demand premium spices, and the UAE’s distribution network offers exporters access to a wide regional market.
How to Export Spices from India to Europe & Middle East

To succeed in these markets, exporters must follow best practices:

  • Secure essential documentation: Importer Exporter Code (IEC)FSSAI LicenseSpices Board or APEDA registration, and quality certifications like ISO or HACCP.
  • Ensure compliance with EU regulations regarding pesticide standardsmycotoxin levels, and storage protocols.
  • Adopt modern logistics: premium packaging, temperature control, traceability, and considering emerging options like blockchain for transparency.
  • Leverage global platforms and trade partnerships to connect with importers across Europe and Middle East.
Why Choose Strivex Global as Your Spices Export Partner

At Strivex Global, we combine deep expertise with export-quality assurance:

  • We offer a diverse, high-quality range of Indian spices and mixes.
  • We’re headquartered in Gujarat, one of India’s leading spice-export hubs.
  • We ensure regulatory compliance, superior processing, and competitive pricing.
  • Explore our export-ready spices here.
FAQ (Voice Search Optimized)

What are the top spices imported by Europe from India?
Turmeric, cumin, cardamom, chili, and specialized organic blends are highly sought after in Europe.

Which Middle Eastern countries import the most Indian spices?
The UAE is a major importer and re-export hub. Demand is also high in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other Gulf nations.

How can I start exporting spices from India?
Obtain necessary licenses (IEC, FSSAI, Spices Board), ensure compliance, and use trade platforms or partner with established exporters like Strivex Global.

Why are Indian spices in high demand internationally?
Due to their rich aroma, superior quality, diverse varieties, and growing popularity in health, culinary innovation, and cultural cuisine.

What makes Strivex Global a top spices exporter in Gujarat?
Our deep-rooted expertise, quality control, export-ready portfolio, and reliability make us an ideal partner.

Conclusion

As demand for spices in Europe and the Middle East surges—fueled by health trends, multicultural cuisine, and clean-label expectations—Indian exporters have a golden opportunity to lead. By focusing on quality, compliance, innovation, and market insight, exporters from India,especially Gujarat-based ones like Strivex Global, can elevate their global footprint. Ready to capitalize on this spice boom? Partner with Strivex Global today for reliable, premium spice exports.

disclaimer

What's your reaction?