Guntur, a city in Andhra Pradesh is known as the chilli capital of India. It earns this title as it is the biggest exporter and producer of chillies in the country. It is also the place where Guntur Chilli Yard, the largest chilli market in Asia is located.
According to statistics released by Spices Board of India, over 2.69 million tonnes of chillies were produced in the year 2024-25. Around 30% of India's chilli produce is grown here and the region exports popular chilli varieties such as Guntur Sannam to the world.
Why Guntur is Called the Chilli Capital of India?
Guntur is the chilli capital of India as it produces around 30% of total chilli in India, and also serves as the largest hub of chilli trading in Asia. It is the main centre for the production, processing and marketing of dried chillies.
Its agricultural success can be attributed to the fertile black cotton soil. The soil has high mineral content and is well water holding. Farmers are assured of irrigation due to its nearness to the Krishna River. These factors enable Guntur to produce deep red coloured and high pungent chillies. Andhra Pradesh is the leading producer of chilli in India with almost 50% of the total production.
Importance of Guntur Chilli Yard
Guntur Chilli Yard is the biggest chilli market in Asia. The official name of this is Agricultural Market Committee (AMC) Guntur. During the peak season, thousands of bags of dried red chilli are received at this yard every day.
The yard serves as a price setting centre for the chilli industry. The price changes in Guntur have repercussions in international markets. The crop is preserved in modern cold storage facilities around and in the city. Such facilities make the chillies available for export all year round.
Characteristics of Guntur Chilli Varieties
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The most popular variety of this region is Guntur Sannam or S4. It is known for its pungency and thick skin. It is extensively used to prepare spice blends and oleoresins. Oleoresins are extracts in concentrated form and are used in food and pharmaceutical industries.
Guntur Sannam chillies have a unique appearance, they are deep red in colour and are high in heat, hovering around 35000 to 40000 SHU or Scoville Heat Units. These chillies are usually 5 to 15 cm long. The heat of a chilli is measured in Scoville Heat Units, which determines the concentration of capsaicin in a chilli.
In 2010, Guntur got a Geographical Indication (GI) tag to safeguard its unique regional identity.
Economic Impact and Global Exports
Chili is an important export crop for India and is a major source of foreign exchange. India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of chillies in the world. Major contribution to these exports comes from Guntur.
International buyers consider Guntur chillies as they are of consistent quality. China is the biggest importer of Indian dried chillies at present. Other significant customers include the United States and other countries in south-east Asia.
What is Guntur Sannam?
Guntur Sannam is a particular type of red chilli, which is cultivated in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. It has intense output and is deep red colour. It was given a Geographical Indicator (GI) tag in 2010 as it is a unique product of the region.
Which state in India produces the most chillies?
Andhra Pradesh is the top chili producing state in India. The Guntur district is the most productive district in the state. Andhra Pradesh contributes almost 50% of the chillies grown in the country along with its neighbouring regions.
How large is the Guntur Chilli Yard?
Guntur Chilli Yard has the largest area in Asia with more than 50 acres of land. It processes thousands of metric tons of chillies every year. The market acts as a selling platform for farmers to sell their products to the big export houses and local traders.
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