The spice industry is facing growing challenges as global demand rises, particularly for turmeric, ginger, and black pepper, driven by their culinary, medicinal, and functional uses. However, supply chains in the spice sector face significant challenges, including contamination by mycotoxins in chilli and aflatoxins in nutmeg. These quality concerns are further exacerbated by the fragmented nature of supply chains in regions such as South Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Africa. Additionally, labour challenges, including poor working conditions and reports of child labour in some smallholder-dependent regions, threaten the sustainability of the sector. While some farmers are shifting away from spice cultivation due to climate pressures and low profitability, targeted interventions and certifications are helping mitigate these issues in parts of the industry.
To secure the supply of authentic, natural and sustainable spices, we pioneered the Sustainable Spices Initiative (SSI) since 2012 with public and private partners working together towards sustainably sourced spices. Local platforms such as SSI- Indonesia, Private Public Partnership (PPP) Taskforce Vietnam, and National Sustainable Spice Program (NSSP) are also striving to address local supply chain issues through collaboration with local governments and the private sector. Together with these industry front-runners, we are enabling better traceability and control through collaboration with governments and farmers, creating broad engagement, developing and benchmarking standards, implementing pilot projects, and sharing learnings to create a sustainable spices sector.
Together with our partners, we’re working to develop sustainable business models, create positive on-the-ground impact and improve sector governance in key spice-producing countries, such as Vietnam, India, and Indonesia.
“IDH’s guidance strengthened our sustainability program framework and advanced key metrics for gender equality, climate resilience, and productivity. Through collaborative efforts, we’ve leveraged data-driven insights and cutting-edge precision farming solutions to address India's unique challenges.”
Bringing together leading national and international processors, blenders, food industry brands, retailers and NGOs to transform the sector sustainably.
A sector-wide consortium striving for sustainable transformation within the spices sector through strategic collaboration.
An India-based working group to work towards a sustainable solution to irresponsible agrochemical use on the farms.
A multi-stakeholder platform working in close collaboration with the Indonesian government for sustainable solutions in the spices sector.
A successful platform mobilising the government and the sector to work towards sustainability in pepper and other spices.
