India imports 1,500 tonnes of Asafoetida annually valued at Rs 940 crore

Aafoetida businessman Kamal Dixit reveals that India annually imports 1500 tonnes of asafoetida, amounting to a value of Rs 940 crore.

Hathras, a city in Uttar Pradesh, has earned its reputation as a hub for producing the finest quality asafoetida (also known as 'hing' locally) due to its royal connections with Afghanistan. The fragrant spice, celebrated internationally for its distinctive flavour and widespread ayurvedic applications, holds a special place not just in India but also in countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Import statistics

Asafoetida businessman Kamal Dixit revealed that India annually imports 1.500 tonnes of asafoetida, amounting to Rs 940 crore. Astonishingly, every Indian household exclusively depends on imported asafoetida of which 90 percent is sourced from Afghanistan, 8 percent from Uzbekistan and 2 percent from Iran.

Asafoetida pricing

The pricing of asafoetida, imported from Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, varies significantly, ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 55,000 per kilogram. In the current market, Tajikistan's asafoetida is priced at Rs 550 for 10 gm, Uzbekistan's at Rs 350, and a combination of Afghanistan and Uzbekistan at Rs 250. Additionally, milky asafoetida is available at Rs 200 per 10 gm.

Kamal Dixit highlights that although there are over 130 types of asafoetida, only 4-5 varieties of the fragrant spice are commonly utilised.

Tip to spot real from fake

Dixit shared a valuable tip for consumers to distinguish real asafoetida from fake ones. Rather than relying on appearance or fragrance, placing a small piece of asafoetida on the tongue can reveal its authenticity, he says. Genuine asafoetida, especially from Hathras, provides a unique taste without causing irritation, he emphasised.