India’s coffee export story is brewing strong. Over the past 11 years, exports have more than doubled — jumping 125% from $800 million in 2014–15 to $1.8 billion in 2023–24, according to official data.
The surge is driven by a cocktail of targeted government policies, market diversification efforts, and digital reforms initiated by the Coffee Board of India. Europe remains India’s largest buyer, but new inroads are being made into Asia and North America.
Key Highlights
- $1.8 billion in exports in FY 2023–24, up from $1.14 billion the previous year.
- Europe continues as the top destination, led by Italy, Germany, Belgium.
- New markets include Middle East, South Korea, Japan, the US, Canada, and Nordic countries.
- India ranks #7 in production and #5 in global coffee exportsholding a 5% share.
- Annual production stands at ~3.6 lakh tonnes, largely from Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
- 2 million livelihoods supported directly and indirectly by the coffee sector.
What’s Fueling the Export Surge?
- Digital push: Online issuance of RCMC, export permits, and certificates of origin.
- Freight & transit support:
- ₹3/kg for value-added exports
- ₹2/kg for high-value green coffee to distant markets
- Capital subsidy: 40% (up to ₹15 lakh) for roasting, grinding, packaging units.
- Market intelligence:Coffee Board initiatives to help exporters navigate global trends.
- Sustainability spotlight:
- Shade-grown coffee aligns with EU deforestation laws
- Supports biodiversity and income for marginal growers
Industry Voices
“These measures are helping us reach newer markets.”
— Divya Shree G S, Founder, Vidi’s Coffee
“There is huge potential for specialty coffee exports from India.”
— Komal Sable, Co-founder, South India Coffee Company
— Komal Sable, Co-founder, South India Coffee Company
“Our traditional shade-grown practices give us an edge in complying with new sustainability norms.”
— Bose Mandana, Veteran coffee grower, Coorg
— Bose Mandana, Veteran coffee grower, Coorg
The Road Ahead
India’s export-oriented coffee ecosystem is undergoing a transformation — embracing value addition, sustainability, and niche market opportunities. With evolving consumer preferences globally and institutional support at home, Indian coffee is poised for a larger global footprint in the coming years.