India's Coffee Story: From Origin to Global Presence; Now the 7th Largest Coffee Producer in the World

India has risen to become the world’s seventh-largest coffee producer, with exports reaching $1.29 billion in the 2023-24 fiscal year, nearly double the $719.42 million recorded in 2020-21.

Historical Origins and Development
Coffee was introduced to India in the 1600s when Sufi saint Baba Budan brought seven Mocha seeds to the Karnataka hills, sparking the cultivation of coffee in the region. This act laid the foundation for the growth of India’s coffee industry.

Current Production and Export Landscape

• Production: India mainly produces Arabica and Robusta beans, with these two varieties making up about three-fourths of the country’s coffee output. In the first half of January 2025, over 9,300 tonnes were exported, with Italy, Belgium, and Russia being the top destinations.
• Export Growth: The surge in exports is driven by the increasing global demand for India’s distinct coffee flavors, reflecting the country’s expanding influence in the global coffee market.
   

Domestic Coffee Consumption
India’s domestic coffee consumption has steadily risen from 84,000 tonnes in 2012 to 91,000 tonnes in 2023. This growth is fueled by the rise of café culture, higher disposable incomes, and a growing preference for coffee over tea, especially in urban and rural areas.

Regional Coffee Production Insights
India’s coffee is primarily cultivated in the biodiverse Western and Eastern Ghats, with Karnataka leading in production, contributing 248,020 metric tonnes in 2022-23. Kerala and Tamil Nadu also play significant roles in coffee cultivation. The shaded plantations in these regions are not only vital for the coffee industry but also help preserve the ecological balance of these biodiversity-rich areas.

Government Initiatives and Future Outlook
The Coffee Board of India has launched several initiatives to boost coffee production, including the Integrated Coffee Development Project (ICDP), which aims to improve yields, expand cultivation in non-traditional areas, and promote sustainability. These efforts are designed to enhance productivity and strengthen India’s competitive position in the global coffee market.

Global Coffee Production Rankings

1. Brazil – The world’s largest coffee producer, accounting for around 37% of global supply.
2. Vietnam – Second-largest, mainly producing Robusta coffee.
3. Colombia – A major Arabica coffee producer, ranked third.
4. Indonesia – Known for Robusta and specialty coffees.
5. Honduras – Leading coffee producer in Central America.
6. Mexico – A key exporter of Arabica coffee.
7. India – Seventh-largest, producing both Arabica and Robusta varieties.