Cardamom is the third most expensive spice in the world, after saffron and vanilla. In the mid-1970s, Tanzania was the third-largest producer of cardamom, after Guatemala and India, which account for 70% of global production. By 2011, Tanzania had dropped to seventh and production had fallen from 20% to less than 3% of global volume.

Tanzania produces excellent quality cardamom. It can regain its global market status with increased planting and solid plantation management.

The cardamom world market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.35% from 2017-2021. This is due to the increasing use of cardamom in health supplements and cooking in the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

Claimed health benefits of cardamom: It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. Cardamom may help to lower blood pressure and fight cancer, as well as help to treat ulcers, bad breath, cavities and other infections. Cardamom oil may also be able to kill bacteria and fungi.

Tanzania produces whole green cardamom and black cardamom.