Kochi to host 9th edition of International Spice Conference from Feb 23-26
The All India Spices Exporters Forum (AISEF) will host the 9th edition of the International Spice Conference (ISC 2026) from February 23 to 26, 2026 in Kochi.
The 4-day conference with the theme — “Spice 360 – Getting Future Ready”– will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and innovators from across the world to deliberate on the future of the global spice industry.
Amitabh Kant, former G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog will inaugurate the conference and deliver keynote address on “Transforming Agro-Industry: Innovation, Inclusion & Global Leadership.” Martin Sonntag, CEO of Oterra, will be the Guest of Honour and speak on “Shaping the Next Decade of Food & Nutrition: Collaboration, Trust, and Responsibility.”
Emmanuel Nambusseril, Chairman, AISEF, said that ISC, the flagship initiative of AISEF, has evolved into a globally recognised platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration across the spice value chain. Hosting the conference in Kerala carries special significance.
“Kerala has been at the heart of the global spice trade for centuries. At a time of rapid change and uncertainty in global commerce, ISC 2026 offers a comprehensive platform to reimagine growth, resilience and sustainability for the spice industry,” he said.
Nishesh Shah, Vice Chairman, AISEF, said the theme reflects the industry’s collective responsibility to prepare for the future. “‘Spice 360 – Getting Future Ready’ focuses on navigating trade and climate risks, embracing technology and innovation, and building resilient supply chains that can meet the evolving demands of global consumers.
The organisers noted that the conference assumes added importance in the backdrop of recent global trade disruptions. The episodes have prompted Indian exporters to diversify markets, strengthen engagement with ASEAN and other regions, focus on value-added products, optimise costs and build stronger domestic linkages, highlighting the need for future-ready strategies, which are core to the discussions at ISC 2026.
A major highlight will be the Crops and Markets sessions, offering in-depth market intelligence and production outlooks for turmeric, ginger, cumin, chilli, Mediterranean herbs, major Chinese spices, black pepper and dehydrated products, enabling data-driven decision-making for global trade.
Published on January 14, 2026
