In a remarkable surge for the coffee industry, India's coffee bean exports are projected to increase by a staggering 40% during the fiscal year 2024-2025. This significant rise, as noted by the Indian Ministry of Trade, marks a pivotal moment for a sector that has continually gained momentum in both local and international markets.
According to a report from BRICS TV, the value of India's coffee bean exports from April 2024 to February 2025 soared to $1.54 billion, compared to around $1.3 billion in the previous fiscal year. The bulk of these exports finds its way to Europe, showcasing India's growing appeal in overseas markets.
A closer look reveals that approximately three-quarters of the coffee produced in India falls under the Arabica and Robusta varieties, which are primarily exported in their raw forms. The recent uptick in exports is complemented by a palpable increase in local consumption, reflecting coffee's rising popularity against traditional beverages like tea. Reports indicate that local coffee consumption surged to 91,000 tons in 2023, a noticeable jump from 84,000 tons just a decade prior in 2012.
As more cafes spring up across India, coupled with rising income levels, the coffee culture continues to expand. This shift has been documented by BRICS TV, which reported, "With the increasing popularity of cafes in India and rising income levels, coffee consumption in India has significantly increased." Such changes point toward broader consumer trends and changing preferences within Indian society.
Geographically, the heart of India's coffee production lies in the southern part of the country, where the unique climatic conditions, including plentiful monsoon rains, contribute to the high quality of the beans. The Indian coffee farming practices have successfully carved out a coveted niche in the global market, where quality is increasingly at a premium.
This dynamic growth in exports and local consumption of coffee not only signifies a shift in consumer behavior but also highlights India's potential on the world stage in the coffee industry. As the country continues to enhance its production capabilities and refine its output quality, there is an expectation that these trends will solidify India's position as a formidable player in global coffee exports.
In summation, the substantial increase in both coffee exports and local consumption reflects a broader transformation within India’s culinary landscape. These trends underscore the changing tastes of consumers and indicate a bright future for India’s coffee sector as it moves toward new horizons in the global marketplace.