International trade in medicinal and aromatics plants: A case study of past 18 years

Abstract

The global trade in medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) is growing exponentially, and developed countries are the most favored buneficiaries. In the present study, we have analyzed international trade data of MAPs that belong to commodity group ITC (HS) 1211 for last 18 years, from 1996 to 2013. This data was compiled through COMTRADE database, (UN Statistics Division, New York) and Export Import Data Bank (DGCI&S Kolkata, India). The present study provides a detailed account of international trade pertaining to specific MAPs based commodities, among trading nations as well as India’s export-import of the same. The present report will be useful for researchers, policy makers, industries and farmers for advancing the global business of medicinal and aromatic crops.