Fennel Seeds in Global Trade: Everything You Need To Know
For those who do not know, the dried fruits of the fennel plant are called fennel seeds. Also known as saunf seeds in South Asia, they are one of the most commonly traded spice seeds in the global spice industry. With roots in ancient civilizations such as Rome, Greece, and Egypt, this spice is mainly popular for its distinctive aroma, digestive properties, and versatility in food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. Interestingly, in the Middle Ages, it was believed that fennel seeds could ward off evil spirits, and thus they were often hung over doorways. Once considered a royal spice in England, fennel seeds are also rich in antioxidants and known for supporting digestive health. Today, they have a strong global presence in trade. Rising demand for natural spices, herbal remedies, and functional foods continues to expand the international market. Therefore, exporters are actively looking for fennel seeds buyers and fennel seeds importers across high-demand regions such as Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe.
What Are the Commonly Traded Types of Fennel Seeds in Global Markets?
Fennel seeds that we use in cooking majorly come from two types of fennel plants. These plants are sweet fennel and wild fennel (or common fennel). The former one has a unique anise-like aroma and flavor, while the latter one has a more grassy, celery-like taste. In addition, there is also Florence fennel that produces seeds to be used in cooking. When we talk about types of fennel seeds, they range from whole and organic varieties to products like fennel powder and other value-added items. Here are the types of fennel seeds that are commonly traded in global markets, as well as the different grades of fennel seeds.
Different types of fennel seeds:
| Type of Fennel Seeds | Features | Key Export Insights |
| Whole Fennel Seeds | Dried seeds used in cooking, teas, and remedies | High demand in Middle East, South Asia, North America; easy for bulk shipment |
| Organic Fennel Seeds | Grown without pesticides; certified organic | Rising demand in Europe & North America |
| Green Fennel Seeds | Premium bright-green seeds with superior flavor | India leads production; higher fennel seeds price per kg |
| Toasted Fennel Seeds | Lightly roasted for sweetness & aroma | Niche but growing demand in Middle East & Asia; adds value |
| Fennel Powder (Saunf Powder) | Ground seeds for culinary & medicinal use | Used by food processors, bakeries, herbal supplements; needs quality checks |
| Blended/Value-added Products | Fennel spice blends, teas, extracts | Growing demand in wellness and functional foods |
Different grades of fennel seeds:
- Grade A / Premium: Bright green, uniform size, highest aroma & flavor with minimal to no defects
- Grade B / Standard: Slightly mixed color, good flavor; may have minor defects (such as discoloration or uneven sizes)
- Grade C / Commercial: Mixed color, smaller or broken seeds, acceptable flavor
- Organic Grade: Certified organic, may vary in color but pesticide-free
Many bulk buyers of fennel seeds prefer sourcing multiple spice seeds, powders, and related products together for cost efficiency and business growth. As an exporter, you can increase your profitability by adding the following products to your offerings:
- Spice Seeds (including Coriander Seeds, Cumin Seeds, and Fenugreek Seeds)
- Oil Seeds (such as Sunflower Seed, Soybean Seeds, Mustard Seeds, Niger Seeds, Rape Seed, Cotton Seeds, Jute Seeds, Jatropha Seed, and Canola Seeds)
- Spice Powder (including Cumin Powder, Pepper Powder, Chilli Powder, Green Chilli Powder, and other Spices Powder)
- Whole Spices (such as Pepper, Red Chilli, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Black Cardamom, Green Cardamom)
- Organic & Dehydrated Products (covering a range of Organic Spices and Dehydrated Spices for diverse applications)
A Look into Global Fennel Seeds Market Trends: Key Insights for Export Import
Did you know that Indian fennel seeds dominate the global market? Yes, it is mainly because of its superior flavor profile with a sweet and strong aroma. India produces over 70% of the world's fennel seed exports. In fact, popular varieties like Gujarat Fennel (GF-1 and GF-2) are greatly demanded. Many more such global market insights can help you make data-driven decisions, identify trade opportunities, and expand your export business. From global market size to leading importers of fennel seeds and price trends, here’s what you need to know.
Global Fennel Seeds Market Size:
| Metric | Value |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 1.2 Billion |
| Estimated Market Size (2033) | USD 2.1 Billion |
| CAGR (2026 - 2033) | 7.10% |
| Largest Market | Asia Pacific (contributing 40% of the total revenue) |
| Fennel Seeds HSN Code | 9096139 |
Source: Verified Market Reports
Top Fennel Seeds Importers Worldwide:
| Country Name | Total Shipments |
| United States | 2,993 |
| Bangladesh | 1,233 |
| Canada | 960 |
Source: Volza
Global Fennel Seeds Price Per Kg:
Currently, the average fennel seeds price per kg ranges from $0.92/kg to $3.10/kg. Here's the wholesale fennel seeds price trends over the past three years.
| Year | Price Range |
| 2022 | $1.14/kg - $2.19/kg |
| 2023 | $1.53/kg - $3.14/kg |
| 2024 | $0.72/kg - $1.95/kg |
Source: Tridge
Fennel Seeds Buyer Preferences:
- Prefer uniform, whole seeds (consistent size and color)
- Seek premium green or high-grade seeds (for better aroma and flavor)
- Demand organic certification (EU Organic, USDA Organic) for organic exports
- Expect low moisture content (for longer shelf life)
- Look for clean, impurity-free seeds (without stones or dust)
- Prefer appropriate bulk packaging (like 25–50 kg PP or jute bags)
- Expect traceability and quality certifications (such as ISO or HACCP)
How to Find Verified Fennel Seeds Buyers Near Me or Globally?
- You can sign up on online B2B platforms (like go4WorldBusiness) and connect with verified fennel seeds buyers.
- Participating in spice and food trade fairs (such as the India International Spice Expo, Anuga, and SIAL) lets you meet potential bulk fennel seeds buyers directly.
- There are associations (like Spices Board India or International Trade Centre) that provide fennel seeds importers' directories and networking opportunities.
- You can even search online using terms like 'fennel seeds buyers near me' or 'saunf seeds buyers' to get relevant results.
- Social media platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook groups can also help you find verified fennel seeds importers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is the market for fennel seeds?
The global fennel seed market is experiencing constant growth because of increasing demand in food, beverages, health supplements, and even cosmetics. The fennel seeds market size is projected to grow from $1.2 billion in 2024 to $2.1 billion in 2033, with a CAGR of 7.1% from 2026 to 2033.
2. What are the major fennel seed importing countries?
The United States, Bangladesh, and Canada are the top fennel seeds importers worldwide.
3. What are the best fennel seed varieties for export?
The best fennel seed varieties for export are whole fennel seeds, organic fennel seeds, and fennel powder. All of these varieties serve different segments, from culinary to health supplements.
4. How can I ensure the quality of my fennel seeds?
You can ensure the quality of your fennel seeds by conducting multiple checks, such as monitoring for degradation (loss of aroma, change in color, presence of mold or insects), testing moisture content, ensuring purity, and maintaining standardized packaging and storage.
5. What is the shelf life of fennel seeds?
The shelf life of fennel seeds usually ranges from 1 to 3 years, based on the handling and storage conditions.
6. How can I find fennel seeds buyers?
You can find fennel seeds buyers through:
- B2B platforms (like go4WorldBusiness)
- Trade shows (such as SIAL, BIOFACH, Fi India, Foodtech Asia, etc)
- Linkedin
- Export promotion councils.
7. Which country is the largest producer of fennel seeds?
India is the world's largest producer of fennel seeds, along with other notable producers like Egypt, China, and Turkey.
8. What is the fennel seeds HSN code?
09096139 is the fennel seeds HSN code.
9. Which Indian state is the largest producer of fennel seeds?
Gujarat is the largest producer of fennel seeds in India.
