India’s coffee export growth: Shipments up 125% to $1.8 billion in 11 years; Europe remains top buyer
India’s coffee exports have surged by 125 per cent over the past 11 years, touching $1.8 billion in 2023–24, up from $800 million in 2014–15, according to central government data.The rise in exports has been attributed to a series of policy measures implemented by the Coffee Board of India, including digitalisation of permits, export incentives, and support for value addition in processing.As per the data, exports stood at $1.28 billion in 2023–24, compared to $1.14 billion in 2022–23. Europe continues to be the top destination for Indian coffee, with key markets including Italy, Germany, Belgium, Middle East nations, South Korea and Japan, PTI reported.To bolster exports, the Coffee Board has taken steps such as digital issuance of RCMC, export permits and certificates of origin, regular engagement with exporters to address bottlenecks, and providing global market intelligence.Additionally, the government has introduced transit and freight assistance, offering Rs 3 per kg for value-added exports and Rs 2 per kg for high-value green coffee shipments to far-off markets such as the US, Canada, Japan, and Nordic countries.To further aid domestic processors and entrepreneurs, the Board offers 40% subsidy on machinery costs, capped at Rs 15 lakh, for roasting, grinding and packaging units.“These measures are helping us reach newer markets,” said Divya Shree G S, founder of Vidi’s Coffee.Coffee Board CEO and Secretary M Kurma Rao noted that India’s coffee is largely shade-grown under native canopy trees, promoting biodiversity, soil and water conservation, and offering sustainable income to small and marginal growers.Veteran Coorg-based grower Bose Mandana added that shade-grown practices also align with EU deforestation regulations, strengthening India’s export readiness.Highlighting global opportunities, South India Coffee Company (SICC) founders Akshay Dashrath and Komal Sable said their firm is helping Indian producers and roasters expand abroad. “There is huge potential for specialty coffee exports from India,” Komal said.India, the seventh-largest coffee producer globally with a 3.5% share, ranks fifth in exports with a 5% global share. The country produces about 3.6 lakh tonnes of coffee annually, with Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu being top growers. The sector directly and indirectly supports around 2 million people.
