Spice & Commodity Brokers in Greenpoint (Brooklyn), New York
John H. Elton, Inc., is a full service ingredient brokerage house specializing in herbs, spices, dried fruits and nuts.
Proud Member of:
American Spice Trade Association (ASTA)
©2025 John H. Elton Inc. New York, NY USA
August 14, 2026
JHE continues to be unusually challenged by freight disruptions, particularly to atypical destinations where steamship companies are accepting bookings and then cancelling them shortly afterward. SSCO'S are also quoting freight rates with a very narrow window for exporters to accept their offers. New U.S. tariffs for some countries include some spices are subject to the newer rates, while others are exempt. The ASTA online tools are available to sort through particular situations.
Pepper
Historically higher exports from Vietnam in the first half of the year are fueled more by their imports than their own production. But activity remains tepid and is more Brazil-focused as their freight rates have not risen as dramatically; arrivals from Para are being watched closely with some reports of crop challenges and if this plays out it can move markets. Brazilian exporters are willing to offer forward positions for a premium. Overall market analyses still point to the shortfall in supply vs stable demand; the tipping point that will trigger bullish activity remains elusive.
Other Spices:
Egyptian ANISE offers have strengthened, and their BASIL harvest is substantially less quantity than is typical. Peruvian new crop ANNATTO is being harvested and pricing looks favorable. Finland is selling new crop CARAWAY. New crop CARDAMOM from Guatemala does not look like it will provide much relief. Egypt's FENNEL market is also strong. European PARSLEY is definitely impacted by the heat, with lesser yields. Guatemalan PIMENTO offers retrenched to compete with Mexico, but Honduras is holding firm; the market has reacted with activity in response to the levels well below the previous season. There are more queries in the local market for SAGE than is typical. Indian TURMERIC levels continue to be steady but at higher levels.
JHE IS NOW USDA ORGANIC CERTIFIED