Have Coffee Exports from India Really Doubled in Recent Years?
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Synopsis
On International Coffee Day, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal announced that Indian coffee exports have doubled in recent years, emphasizing its sustainability and the potential for innovation in the sector. The recent EFTA agreement opens doors to premium markets, boosting India's coffee industry.
Key Takeaways
- Indian coffee exports have doubled recently.
- Sustainability is a key feature of Indian coffee cultivation.
- Innovation in coffee products like instant and specialty coffee is growing.
- The EFTA agreement presents new opportunities for Indian coffee exporters.
- Brand India needs to be promoted on a global scale.
New Delhi, Oct 1 (NationPress) Indian coffee is recognized for its sustainability as it is cultivated alongside forests, and according to Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, its exports have indeed doubled in recent years. This statement was made on International Coffee Day on Wednesday.
During the inauguration of a coffee experience zone and expo organized by the Coffee Board, Agrawal, who recently assumed the role of Commerce Secretary, emphasized the importance of diversifying coffee cultivation.
He remarked, “With a swiftly growing middle class, the rise in domestic coffee consumption is imminent.”
Agrawal noted that value addition in coffee is on the rise, with new entrepreneurs venturing into sectors such as instant coffee and speciality coffee.
He stressed the ongoing need for innovation and value addition, highlighting India's rich heritage in spices, which offers vast opportunities for coffee innovation.
Additionally, he pointed out, “In addition to exporting coffee, it is crucial to promote 'Brand India' and enhance the country's position in the global market.”
This event coincides with the enactment of the India–European Free Trade Association (EFTA) trade and economic partnership agreement (TEPA), opening up new avenues for Indian coffee to penetrate premium markets in Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland.
Among the EFTA countries, Switzerland and Norway are noted for their high demand for premium-quality coffees.
The India-EFTA TEPA could provide the most advantageous market access for Indian coffee in EFTA territories.
Agrawal stated that the agreement may assist coffee exporters in reaching premium markets in Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland, allowing them to showcase India's high-quality shade-grown, hand-picked, and sun-dried coffees.
EFTA member nations, including Switzerland (USD 145 million), Norway ($27 million), and Iceland ($3 million), collectively import coffee valued at $175 million, which constitutes approximately 3 percent of global coffee imports.
Point of View
It's clear that the industry is on the brink of significant transformation. The emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and market expansion through international agreements like EFTA reflects a strategic approach to establishing India as a coffee powerhouse. This aligns with the nation's goal to enhance its global standing, ensuring that our coffee legacy is recognized worldwide.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current state of Indian coffee exports?
Indian coffee exports have doubled in recent years, highlighting the growth and sustainability of the sector.
How does the EFTA agreement benefit Indian coffee?
The EFTA agreement opens premium markets in Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland, providing favorable access for Indian coffee exporters.
