India's coffee exports experienced a significant increase of 13.35% during the January-March period this year, with a total shipment of 125,631 tonnes compared to 110,830 tonnes in the same period in 2023. This rise is attributed to a growing demand for Robusta coffee, a variety known for its higher caffeine content and stronger, more bitter flavor compared to the sweeter and smoother Arabica. The Coffee Board of India reported an 18% increase in Robusta coffee exports, totaling 69,637 tonnes, while Arabica shipments slightly declined.
In addition to whole beans, India saw a rise in instant coffee exports, reaching 16,218 tonnes, and an increase in re-exported coffee to 26,239 tonnes. This growth in coffee trade contributed to a substantial rise in export value, with earnings reaching Rs 3,644 crore, up from Rs 2,604.44 crore in the previous year. The primary markets for Indian coffee include Italy, Russia, the UAE, Germany, and Turkey, reflecting a diverse global demand for Indian coffee varieties.
Looking ahead, the Coffee Board anticipates a production increase for the 2023-24 marketing year, estimating a total of 374,200 tonnes, which exceeds the actual output of the previous year. This projection, along with the recent export trends, suggests a positive outlook for India's coffee industry, despite a slight decline in overall exports during the full 2023 calendar year.