Historic roots and current scale
India’s coffee history traces back centuries to the Baba Budan Giri hills of Chikkamagaluru. Today the crop spans about 4.91 lakh hectares across the Western and Eastern Ghats and parts of the North East, supporting more than 2 million people in cultivation, processing and trade.
Smallholders dominate nearly 99% of holdings and around 70% of national output making coffee an important rural livelihood crop rather than a purely commercial estate product.
India grows both Arabica (highland, cooler regions) and Robusta (warmer, humid areas). The country produces roughly 3.6 lakh tonnes annually and ranks among the top global growers. Distinct regional coffees Coorg, Chikmagalur, Wayanad, Araku and Bababudangiris have received Geographical Indication (GI) status, raising value for origin-linked beans.
Specialty names like Monsooned Malabar, Mysore Nuggets and Koraput Coffee have strengthened India’s premium positioning abroad.
Exports and market gains
Nearly 70% of production is exported to over 120 countries. Value-added products instant and roasted coffee account for a growing share of export earnings. Recent fiscal figures show strong export growth, underscoring renewed global demand for Indian coffees.
Key markets include Italy, Germany, Belgium, Russia and the UAE, while trade agreements and targeted promotion aim to open higher-value markets in Europe and the UK.
Policy reforms and trade agreements
Recent policy moves including reduction of GST on instant coffee and extracts are intended to boost domestic consumption and improve margins for small processors. Bilateral pacts like the India–EFTA TEPA and India–UK trade arrangements may provide duty advantages for value-added coffee, opening premium markets.
Cooperatives, tribal brands and socio-economic impact
State cooperatives have played a notable role. Odisha’s Tribal Development Co-operative (TDCCOL) introduced doorstep procurement, launched the “Koraput Coffee” brand and set up cafes to showcase tribal-origin coffee. Such interventions have reduced distress migration, ensured timely payments and improved livelihoods among tribal growers.
Research, quality and future outlook
The Coffee Board and Central Coffee Research Institute continue to work on disease-resistant varieties and improved agronomy. Quality platforms such as the Coffee Board’s Fine Cup awards and the Know Your Kaapi programme spotlight premium lot quality and help connect growers to specialty buyers.
With focused policy support and market access, India aims to scale production and value capture while preserving shade-grown, biodiversity-friendly coffee systems.