Kochi: The Spices Board has urged the public to refrain from participating in unauthorized cardamom auctions, warning that such activities violate the Cardamom (Licensing & Marketing) Rules, 1987 and will attract strict legal action.
The Board noted that certain firms and entities, including some licensed dealers, have been involved in unauthorized auctions without obtaining valid licenses. Under the CLM Rules, only individuals or entities with a valid licence from the Spices Board can operate as auctioneers or dealers, and licensed auctioneers are authorized to conduct auctions only at the locations, dates, and times approved by the Board.
It stressed that these illegal activities cause losses to authorized auctioneers and cardamom producers, undermining transparency and fair trade. Licensed dealers are required to purchase cardamom only from registered estate owners, growers, or licensed auctioneers.
Cardamom auctions are officially conducted through e-auction centres in Puttady (Kerala) and Bodinayakanur (Tamil Nadu), along with approved manual auction centres in other states.
The public and stakeholders are encouraged to verify the list of licensed auctioneers on the Spices Board’s website and participate only in legitimate auctions.