India’s coffee export earnings have surged significantly over the past ten years, crossing the $181 million mark (approximately Rs 15,500 crore) in the financial year 2024-25. This figure more than doubles the $80 million (around Rs 5,142 crore at the then exchange rate) recorded in 2014-15, according to official data.

Despite rising demand in both international and domestic markets, India’s coffee production has shown only marginal growth. Total production increased from 345,000 tonnes in 2014-15 to 352,000 tonnes in 2024-25, reflecting a very modest rise over the decade.

The Ministry of Commerce data reveals that coffee exports from India experienced irregular growth during this period. After standing at $80 million in 2014-15, exports fell slightly to $78 million in 2015-16. The following two years saw some recovery, but this was followed by another downturn.

Steady rise since 2021

India exports coffee to about 50 countries worldwide. Italy remains the largest market, accounting for 18.09% of exports. It is followed by Germany (11.01%), Belgium (7.47%), Russia (5.28%), the United Arab Emirates (5.09%), the United States (4.54%), and Libya (3.87%).

The financial year 2021-22 marked a major milestone, as exports surpassed the $100 million threshold, reaching $102 million. A steady upward trend followed, with export values climbing to $115 million and then $129 million in subsequent years. The 2024-25 export figure of $181 million represents a 151% increase over four years.

The substantial rise in export earnings is attributed mainly to an increase in the value of Indian coffee, rather than a large increase in production volumes.

Major producing states

Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu are the principal coffee-producing states in India, with Karnataka alone contributing 70% of the total production.