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Coffee Boom: India’s Exports Surge Amid Global Demand

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India’s coffee exports have surged by 125%, reaching USD 1.8 billion over the past 11 years. This reflects strong global demand and India's growing share in the international coffee trade.


Coffee: Key Crop Highlights

  • Type: Tropical plantation crop

  • Dominant Varieties:

    • Arabica – 75% of global trade, smoother flavor

    • Robusta – stronger, more bitter, higher caffeine

  • Climatic Requirements:

    • Rainfall: 150–300 cm annually

    • Temperature:

      • 15–24°C (Arabica)

      • 24–30°C (Robusta)


Leading Producers

  • Global: Brazil is the world’s top producer.

  • India:

    • Karnataka (highest share)

    • Followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu

  • Grown mainly in Western and Eastern Ghats – ideal for shade-loving crops.


India’s Coffee Export Success

  • Export value touched USD 1.8 billion, up 125% in 11 years.

  • Demand driven by both value-added exports and specialty coffee markets.

  • Major markets: Europe, Russia, Middle East, and Southeast Asia

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UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 1: Geography – Cropping Patterns in India

  • GS Paper 3: Indian Economy – Export promotion, Plantation sector

  • Relevant for Prelims under economic crops, export trends, and agriculture


UPSC Prelims Statement-Based MCQ

Q. With reference to coffee cultivation in India, consider the following statements:

  1. Arabica coffee grows well at lower temperatures compared to Robusta.

  2. Tamil Nadu is the largest producer of coffee in India.

  3. Coffee in India is mostly grown in the Himalayan region.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 1 and 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3


✅ Answer: A. 1 only

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct: Arabica thrives in cooler climates.

  • Statement 2 is incorrect: Karnataka is the top producer.

  • Statement 3 is incorrect: Coffee is primarily grown in the Western and Eastern Ghats, not Himalayas.


UPSC Mains Question (GS Paper 3)

India's coffee exports have seen remarkable growth in recent years. Discuss the factors contributing to this trend and highlight the challenges faced by coffee growers in India.


 
 
 

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