In a landmark achievement for India’s agricultural sector, coffee exports have surged to a record-breaking $2.13 billion for the 2025-26 fiscal year. This historic milestone is not just a triumph of numbers but a testament to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government’s unwavering commitment to transforming India into a global export powerhouse. By fostering an ecosystem of innovation, quality, and market access, the Modi administration has successfully positioned “Made in India” coffee as a premium brand sought after by the world’s most discerning consumers.
A Decade of Exponential Growth:
The transformation of the coffee sector over the last decade is nothing short of extraordinary. From an export value of approximately $800 million in 2014-15, the sector has seen a staggering 125% increase to reach the current multi-billion dollar mark. Under the Modi government, India has climbed the ranks to become the world’s 5th largest coffee exporter, proving that Indian farmers can compete with global giants like Brazil and Vietnam when given the right policy support.
The 2025-26 figures reflect a robust 17% year-on-year growth from the $1.82 billion recorded in the previous year. This surge is particularly impressive given the global geopolitical uncertainties, showcasing the resilience of the Indian supply chain and the strategic diplomacy that has opened new doors for Indian trade.
Strategic Policy Interventions: The Catalyst for Success
The government’s “Viksit Bharat” vision has permeated every level of the coffee value chain. Key initiatives that have driven this success include:
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Export Promotion Schemes: The Coffee Board of India, under the Ministry of Commerce, has provided critical freight assistance and subsidies for high-tech machinery. Incentives of up to ₹3 per kg for value-added products have encouraged exporters to move beyond raw beans to more profitable finished goods.
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Digital Transformation: The transition to online issuance of RCMCs (Registration-cum-Membership Certificates) and digital export permits has eliminated bureaucratic bottlenecks, making it easier for small growers to access international markets.
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Focus on Value Addition: Nearly 38% of India’s coffee exports now consist of value-added products like instant coffee. This shift from “commodity” to “brand” has significantly increased the income of farmers in Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Global Diplomacy and New Frontiers
Prime Minister Modi’s proactive trade diplomacy has played a pivotal role in this export boom. The recently operationalized Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the UK and the EFTA (European Free Trade Association) have granted Indian coffee duty-free access to high-value markets.
While traditional markets like Italy, Germany, and Belgium remain top destinations, the government’s efforts to diversify have led to a massive surge in demand from the Russian Federation and the Middle East. Furthermore, the Prime Minister’s personal promotion of specialty coffees—such as the Araku Valley coffee from Andhra Pradesh and Koraput coffee from Odisha—during his Mann Ki Baat sessions has given these tribal-grown varieties a prestigious global platform.
Empowering the Small Farmer
At the heart of this success story are the two million people employed in the industry, 99% of whom are smallholders. The government’s focus on sustainable and shade-grown coffee has not only protected the biodiversity of the Western and Eastern Ghats but has also aligned Indian exports with stringent European environmental norms, ensuring long-term market sustainability
The Future is Bold and Aromatic
As India marches toward the goal of a $5 trillion economy, the coffee sector stands as a shining example of what is possible when government policy aligns with the hard work of the Indian farmer. With the Export Promotion Mission targeting even higher goals for 2030, the aroma of Indian coffee is set to reach every corner of the globe, carrying with it the story of a rising, self-reliant India.
This is the achievement of India and the Narendra Modi government.
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