image sourced from original article at Amritsar's iconic papad and lentil dumpling industry is facing a fresh crisis as disruptions in hing imports from Iran and Afghanistan have sharply increased prices. The shortage of the essential ingredient has pushed rates up by 5 to 15 per kilogram in recent months, straining both manufacturers and consumers.
Traders say imports have nearly halted following escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, severely impacting the supply chain. India, one of the largest consumers of hing, imports between 1,200 and 1,500 tonnes annually, with Punjab accounting for a significant share due to its strong food processing base.
Small and medium manufacturers in Amritsar, a major hub for traditional food products, are struggling with shrinking margins as input costs rise. Traders have also warned about the growing presence of adulterated hing in the market, with counterfeit products being sold at a fraction of the price of genuine imports.
