From humble practice to thriving industry; here’s how India’s coffee is loved across globe

Do you know how coffee came to India? Well, the credit goes to Baba Budan who brought seven Mocha seeds to the hills of Karnataka during the 1600s. Nobody knew that his simple act of planting these seeds in the courtyard of his hermitage in Baba Budan Giri unknowingly would set in motion the rise of India as one of the world's prominent coffee producers. 

The cultivation of coffee in India has evolved from a humble practice to a thriving industry with the country's coffee now widely loved across the globe. This can be well understood from the fact that India is now the seventh-largest coffee producer globally with exports reaching $1.29 billion in FY 2023-24, almost double the $719.42 million in 2020-21.

What Is The Reason Behind The Coffee Boost?

Due to rise of cafe culture, higher disposable incomes and a growing preference for coffee over tea, coffee consumption in India is also steadily increasing. This trend has been observed particularly in both urban and rural areas. Domestic consumption has increased from 84,000 tonnes in 2012 to 91,000 tonnes in 2023. This surge reflects a broader shift in drinking habits, as coffee becomes a staple in daily life, reported PIB.

The Statistics

India's coffee exports have grown significantly due to the increasing global demand for its rich and unique flavors. In the first half of January 2025 India exported over 9,300 tonnes of coffee with top buyers including Italy, Belgium, and Russia. Approximately three-fourths of India’s coffee production consists of Arabica and Robusta beans. These are primarily exported as unroasted beans. However, there is a growing demand for value-added products like roasted and instant coffee, further fuelling the export boom.

Leading Producing States

India’s coffee is primarily grown in the ecologically rich Western and Eastern Ghats, areas famous for their biodiversity. Karnataka leads in production, contributing 248,020 MT in 2022-23, followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Coffee Board of India’s Initiative

To enhance coffee production and meet growing domestic and international demand, the Coffee Board of India has launched several important initiatives. Through the Integrated Coffee Development Project (ICDP) the focus is on improving yields, expanding cultivation in non-traditional regions and ensuring the sustainability of coffee farming.