Kochi, Kerala will host the 9th International Spice Conference (ISC 2026) from 23–26 February 2026. The conference is organised by the All India Spices Exporters Forum (AISEF), the apex body representing Indian spice exporters.
ISC 2026 will bring together policymakers, exporters, scientists, startups and global industry leaders, focusing on preparing the spice sector for emerging global challenges.
International Spice Conference (ISC 2026)
- Edition: 9th
- Dates: 23–26 February 2026
- Venue: Kochi, Kerala
- Organiser: AISEF
- Nature: Flagship global platform for collaboration across the entire spice value chain
ISC has evolved into a globally recognised forum for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue and industry networking in the spice ecosystem.
Theme & Strategic Vision
Theme: “Spice 360 – Getting Future Ready”
Core focus areas:
- Navigating global trade disruptions
- Addressing climate risks affecting spice cultivation
- Embracing technology, innovation and digitisation
- Building resilient and diversified supply chains
- Aligning with changing global consumer preferences
The theme reflects the industry’s collective responsibility to remain future-ready amid uncertainty.
Sectoral Linkages
The global spice industry is closely connected with:
- Food processing
- Pharmaceuticals
- Nutraceuticals
Hence, discussions will go beyond agriculture to include value addition, quality standards, and global regulatory trends.
Key Sessions & Highlights
Crops and Markets Sessions (Major Highlight)
These sessions will provide data-driven market intelligence and production outlooks for:
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Cumin
- Chilli
- Black pepper
- Mediterranean herbs
- Major Chinese spices
- Dehydrated spice products
Enables evidence-based decision-making for exporters and global traders.
Why ISC 2026 Is Important Now
- Recent global trade disruptions have:
- Increased logistics costs
- Heightened geopolitical risks
- Created volatility in demand
- Indian exporters are responding by:
- Market diversification (ASEAN & emerging markets)
- Shifting towards value-added spice products
- Strengthening domestic value-chain linkages
- Optimising costs and improving resilience
ISC 2026 discussions are aligned precisely with these future-ready strategies.
Why Kerala as Host?
Historical Significance
- Kerala has been at the heart of the global spice trade for centuries
- Served as India’s gateway to international spice commerce since ancient times
Strategic Significance
- Symbolises continuity between traditional strengths and modern strategies
- Reinforces India’s leadership in the global spice ecosystem
- Highlights India’s capacity to anchor global agro-trade resilience dialogues
India in Global Spice Economy
- World’s largest producer, consumer and exporter of spices
- A key driver of global spice supply chains
- Hosting ISC 2026 strengthens India’s role as a thought leader in:
- Sustainable spice production
- Trade resilience
- Value-added agro-exports