Why is Unjha famous and important for Spices?

Unjha, a small town in Gujarat near Ahmedabad, has earned global recognition as one of the biggest hubs for Indian spices. Known as the “Spice City of India,” Unjha is home to Asia’s largest Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) mandi, where farmers, traders, and exporters come together to trade premium spices such as cumin seeds, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, sesame seeds, and more.

The story of Unjha’s rise as a spice powerhouse is closely linked to its farmers, honest trading practices, transparent system, and strong connectivity to India and the world. Let’s explore in detail why Unjha is so famous and why it plays such a vital role in the spice industry.

The History of Unjha APMC

The foundation of Unjha’s spice trade was laid in 1954, when the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) was established. This initiative provided a regulated platform for farmers to sell their produce fairly and transparently. Today, Unjha hosts nearly 400 registered spice traders, making it a central hub not just for Gujarat but for spice buyers across the globe.

Over the decades, Unjha’s APMC has grown into Asia’s largest spice market, buzzing with activity during peak seasons when trucks filled with cumin, fennel, and coriander line the mandi streets.

Farmers at the Heart of Unjha’s Success

The biggest reason behind Unjha’s fame is its farmers. Known for their dedication and hard work, they bring their produce directly to the APMC mandi, where they are assured of fair trade practices.

• Farmers sell their crops through auction-based trading, ensuring they receive the best possible price.

• Once a deal is finalized, the produce is weighed in front of the farmer to maintain complete transparency.

• Unlike most other markets, Unjha’s APMC has a unique cash payment system, where farmers receive immediate payment, reducing financial stress.

This farmer-first approach has built immense trust and laid the foundation of Unjha’s reputation as a fair and reliable spice hub.

Honest Traders and Trusted Business Culture

The spice trade in Unjha is powered by generations of experienced traders who are known for their honesty and commitment. Many of these families have been in the spice business for decades, passing down knowledge and ethical values to future generations.

This culture of trust and integrity has made Unjha’s traders respected partners for international buyers who prefer long-term, reliable business relationships.

Transparent and Fair Dealings

One of the key strengths of Unjha’s spice market is its transparent trading system. Every transaction takes place under the supervision of an APMC representative.

• Auction records are maintained on paper and are accessible to both farmers and traders.

• Rates and daily trade reports are displayed openly to ensure no disputes arise.

• Buyers and sellers can verify trade records, making the entire process smooth and accountable.

This Honesty gives confidence not only to local farmers but also to global buyers sourcing spices from Unjha.

A Complete Spices Ecosystem in Unjha

Unjha has grown beyond just being a mandi—it has evolved into a complete spice ecosystem. Today, traders and processors handle a wide variety of products, catering to both domestic and international markets.

Some of the key spices available in Unjha include:

• Cumin Seeds (Whole & Powder)

• Fennel Seeds (Whole & Powder)

• Coriander Seeds (Whole & Powder)

• Sesame Seeds (Hulled & Unhulled)

• Carom Seeds (Ajwain)

• Black Sesame Seeds

• Flax Seeds

• Kalonji (Nigella Seeds)

With cleaning, grading, and packaging facilities available locally, Unjha traders can supply spices in different forms and packaging sizes ready for global export.

Browse our complete selection of spices.

Why is Unjha Famous for Spices?

Unjha’s importance doesn’t just come from its farmers and traders—it is also about its unique advantages that make it a global spice hub. Let’s break down the key reasons:\

1. Excellent Connectivity Across India and Beyond

Unjha enjoys strategic connectivity through State Highway 41, which links it directly to Ahmedabad, Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Its proximity to major ports like Mundra and Pipavav ensures smooth export operations.

Additionally, Unjha Junction Railway Station connects the town to all major trade routes, while Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad (just 1.5 hours away) provides quick access for international trade.

This makes transportation of spices efficient, cost-effective, and fast.

2. Presence of Quality Testing and Spice Board Facilities

Due to the sheer volume of spice trade, Unjha hosts several spice testing and certification facilities. The Spice Board of India has established its presence in the town to support quality and compliance with international standards.

Laboratories and inspection facilities ensure spices meet strict quality benchmarks, making Unjha a trusted source for global buyers.

3. Growing Export Opportunities

Traditionally, spice exports were dominated by metro cities like Mumbai and Chennai. However, Unjha has emerged as a major export hub in its own right.

By exporting directly from Unjha, middlemen are eliminated, reducing costs for international buyers. The shift of export activities to Unjha benefits both farmers and traders, strengthening its position as a global spice capital.

Life and Business in Unjha

Beyond trade, Unjha has a unique identity shaped by its spice culture. The town thrives on a rhythm set by harvest seasons, auctions, and export shipments. During the cumin season, the streets are filled with trucks waiting to unload their produce, and the mandi buzzes with activity.

For traders and exporters based in Unjha, the work is not just about business—it’s about carrying forward a legacy of honesty, hard work, and global connections.

How to Reach Unjha

If you are planning to visit Unjha for trade or exploration, here’s how you can reach:

• By Road – Located on State Highway 41, Unjha is well connected to Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Mumbai.

• By Train – Unjha Junction offers convenient rail connectivity to major Indian cities.

• By Air – The nearest airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, around 1.5 hours by road.

Our Connection with Unjha

Being based in Unjha is a matter of pride. For over three decades, we have been part of this thriving spice ecosystem, working closely with farmers and traders who make Unjha what it is today.

Our vision is to take the story of Unjha to the world—showcasing not just the spices, but also the people, culture, and values that make this town extraordinary.

Our company feels grateful to be founded in a place like Unjha, and being around honest and hard-working people of Unjha keeps us connected to the ground. We have been doing business in Unjha for the past 30 years and we intend to continue the business for the years to come. Our company's MD Mr. Jiten Agarwal came back from Singapore to Unjha because he saw the immense potential in Unjha and has the vision to put Unjha on the world map and spread awareness about it.

Conclusion

Unjha is not just a market; it is the heartbeat of India’s spice trade. With its farmer-first approach, transparent mandi system, trusted traders, and strong infrastructure, it continues to hold a special place in the global spice industry.

From cumin to fennel, coriander to sesame, the spices of Unjha reach kitchens and businesses worldwide, carrying with them the legacy of trust and tradition.

For anyone looking to understand India’s spice trade, a visit to Unjha offers the perfect insight into how a small town can shape global flavors.