The cumin market remained under pressure last week, with weakness largely seen in the new crop arrivals. However, prices of old premium-quality stock continued to hold firm at higher levels. In Gujarat mandis, fresh arrivals are gradually increasing, and at Unjha APMC, daily arrivals are reported at around 13,000 bags, creating pressure in the spot market. Prices of new cumin declined by ₹200�300 per quintal during the week. On Saturday in Unjha, light quality was quoted at ₹19,200 per quintal, medium at ₹20,500, best at ₹22,500, and extra quality at ₹26,000. In Rajkot, quotations stood at ₹24,250 for 0.1% UK Bolt, ₹23,125 for Europe Sortex, and ₹22,750 for Europe Machine grade. Other key markets reported prices at ₹20,500 in Jaisalmer, ₹22,000 in Gondal, and ₹21,500 per quintal in Nagaur. The futures market also reflected weakness. The March contract closed ₹465 lower on Saturday, while the April contract declined by ₹420, although mild intraday recovery signals were observed. Market sentiment remains soft as fresh arrivals are expected to begin in Rajasthan mandis in March, which could further increase supply. According to production estimates, total output in 2026 is projected at 9,329,616 bags, down by about 464,301 bags from 9,793,917 bags in 2025. Gujarat�s production is estimated to decline to 3,342,038 bags, while Rajasthan�s output is expected to rise to 5,987,578 bags. Overall, the crop size is estimated to fall by nearly 500,000 bags compared to last year. Despite lower acreage, the market is not receiving immediate support due to sufficient carryover stocks, as exports remained weak last year. Exports stood at 4.3 million bags in 2024 but declined to 3.8 million bags in 2025 � a drop of about 12%. This ample stock situation is limiting upside momentum. Technically, the ₹18,800�19,200 per quintal zone is considered strong support, while ₹22,500�23,000 is viewed as an appropriate profit-booking range. Overall, heavy arrivals, adequate old stock, and sluggish export demand suggest limited chances of a major short-term rally. However, premium-quality cumin continues to witness stable demand, and any revival in exports could provide fresh support to prices.