India spices trade mixed, turmeric eases

MUMBAI, Nov 25 (Reuters) - India jeera futures traded steady on Wednesday afternoon as pressure from profit-taking, after prices rose close to 15 percent in the last eight sessions, was offset by support from robust demand, analysts said.

At 3.23 p.m., the benchmark December jeera contract NJEZ9 was up 0.28 percent at 15,529 rupees per 100 kg.

"Jeera is witnessing profit-taking after the recent rally and will take some correction after the recent gains," said Chowda Reddy, an analyst with JRG Wealth Management.

"Due to delay in sowing activities and dry weather conditions in Gujarat, overall area under the crop will decline and that will support sentiment going forward," he said.

A prolonged hot and dry spell has delayed the sowing of cumin, or jeera, slashing acreage 25-30 percent from last year, but traders and analysts said the deficit could narrow if conditions improve. [nBOM487298]

Prices were also supported by firm export demand for the spice as Syria and Turkey continue to quote at a premium to Indian prices.

PEPPER

Indian pepper futures also witnessed correction as traders booked profits after prices climbed over 5 percent in the past two sessions, analysts said.

At 3.23 p.m., the benchmark December pepper contract NPEZ9 was down 0.55 percent at 16,099 rupees per 100 kg.