India’s coffee exports have surged by around 125% in the past 11 years, reaching $1.8 billion in 2023–24, up from over $800 million in 2014–15, according to central government data. The growth is attributed to several key initiatives by the Coffee Board of India.
In 2022–23, coffee exports stood at $1.14 billion, which further increased to $1.28 billion in 2023–24.
Europe Remains the Top Buyer
Europe continues to be the leading destination for Indian coffee, with major importers including Italy, Germany, and Belgium. Other significant markets are the Middle East, South Korea, and Japan.
Coffee Board’s Export Push
The Coffee Board of India has implemented several measures to promote exports. These include:
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Online issuance of export documents like RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate), export permits, and certificates of origin with digital signatures
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Regular interactions with exporters to resolve challenges
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Timely market updates and intelligence reports
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Freight assistance and support for value-added coffee to boost export earnings
The government also offers financial support:
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₹3 per kg for value-added coffee products
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₹2 per kg for high-value green coffee exports to premium markets like the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Finland, Norway, and Denmark
To encourage value addition, the Coffee Board supports individuals, growers, and self-help groups. It funds up to 40% of the cost (capped at ₹15 lakh) for installing machinery for roasting, grinding, and packaging.
“These measures are helping us explore new markets,” said Divya Shree G S, Founder of Vidi’s Coffee. Also Read | Plantation Crops: tea, coffee, tobacco, and spices exports rise $9.16 billion in FY25
Sustainability and Global Appeal
India’s coffee is mainly grown under the shade of native trees, which supports biodiversity, helps in water and soil conservation, and offers climate resilience. This traditional, eco-friendly method also aids India in complying with the EU’s deforestation rules.
“India is one of the few countries promoting shade-grown coffee, which protects forests and ensures sustainability,” said veteran coffee grower Bose Mandana from Coorg.
Entrepreneurs Eye Global Market
Startups are also leveraging the push for exports. Akshay Dashrath and Komal Sable, co-founders of the South India Coffee Company (SICC), said they are working with Indian producers and roasters to promote specialty Indian coffee globally.
“There’s huge potential for India in the specialty coffee segment,” said Komal. SICC currently operates in the US, the UK, and India with its own logistics and warehousing facilities.
India’s Coffee Footprint
India is the world’s seventh-largest coffee producer, contributing 3.5% to global production and ranking fifth in exports with a 5% share. The country produces around 3.6 lakh tonnes of coffee annually, primarily from Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The sector provides employment to about two million people, both directly and indirectly.
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