According to D Sathiyan, Secretary, Spices Board, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this year's WSC is unique because it coincides with India's G20 presidency. He was speaking at curtain-raiser press conference in Mumbai. He also stated that it will provide a forum for stakeholders to discuss the industry's current trends following COVID-19 and chart a course forward. The event, which aims to provide a platform not only for traders but also for policymakers, will include special business sessions devoted to promoting spice trade among G20 countries.
According to Sathiyan, policymakers, regulatory authorities, spice trade associations, government officials, and technical experts from key G20 countries will attend the event. WSC 2023's theme is VISION 2030: S-P-I-C-E-S. (Sustainability, Productivity, Innovation, Collaboration, Excellence and Safety). "Maharashtra is one of the leading states producing spices," Sathiyan said of choosing Maharashtra as the venue for the WSC.
It is India's largest turmeric producer. Maharashtra grows two GI-labeled turmeric varieties and one GI-labeled chilli variety. Maharashtra's coastal areas are also known for producing GI-tagged Kokum. The state is one of the largest spice exporting hubs." Sathiyan stated that Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and Anupriya Patel, Minister of State, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, have agreed to grace the WSC 2023, which will be held at the CIDCO International Convention Centre in Navi Mumbai. On February 17, 2023, Piyush Goyal will also present the Trophies and Awards for Excellence in Spice Exports.
Sathiyan elaborated on the spice trade in India, stating that during 2022-23, there will be an increased demand for certain spices, particularly seed spices such as cumin, fenugreek, bishop's weed (Ajwain), dill, poppy, aniseed, mustard, and others. Garlic production increased by 170% from April to October 2022 when compared to the same period last year. Other spices showing a positive trend include saffron, which had a bumper crop this season, asafoetida, cinnamon, and cassia. Spice-derived value-added products, such as curry powder, are also on the rise.
Highlights World Championships 2023:
The World Sports Congress 2023, supported by the Government of India, is expected to be larger and more diverse than previous editions, with special state pavilions and commodity pavilions. The event will allow the spice fraternity to meet and promote Indian brands to a larger global audience.
WSC 2023's business sessions will cover topics such as:
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India - The Spice Bowl for Global Market
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Perspectives on addressing Food safety & Quality Requirements for Spices (Presentation/Panel Discussion with Regulatory Authorities);
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Strengthening Global Spice Trade-Country Perspective & Opportunities
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Crops & Markets - Forecasts & Trends
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Spice Market outlook by International Spice Trade Associations
The event will have:
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Awards Nights – Distribution of the prestigious Awards for excellence in export of spices
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Spice Experience Zone
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Authentic Indian Experiences– Cultural, Culinary
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Tech Talk Sessions and Product Launches
The Spices Board organizes the WSC with the active participation of Spice Trade Associations in India such as the Indian Spice & Foodstuff Exporters' Association - Mumbai, the Indian Pepper and Spice Trade Association - Kochi, the Indian Chamber of Commerce - Kolkata, and the Federation of Indian Spice Stakeholders - Unjha, Gujarat.
