Coffee Board of India to Introduce National Certifications for Coffee Producers
The Coffee Board of India is set to revolutionize the nation’s coffee industry with the launch of new national coffee standards and certification processes. This initiative is designed to help Indian coffee farmers embrace state-backed quality and sustainability standards, positioning Indian coffee as a distinct global brand in international markets.
Addressing Certification Challenges
Currently, approximately 85% of Indian coffee lacks certification due to the prohibitive costs associated with international accreditations like Fair Trade, USDA Organic, and Rainforest Alliance. The absence of such certifications has hindered the global competitiveness of Indian coffee. To address this, the Coffee Board will provide a new quality certification seal free of charge, making it accessible to all Indian coffee farmers.
“Until now, most coffee varieties were certified under international standards that fail to account for the unique growing conditions of Indian coffee,” said Dr. K.G. Jagadeesha, Secretary and CEO of the Coffee Board of India. “Our new certification process will highlight these unique conditions, helping Indian coffee stand out and achieve global recognition.”
Recognizing India’s Unique Coffee Identity
Indian coffee is primarily grown under dense tree shade, a practice that preserves biodiversity and enhances coffee quality. The new certification standards will reflect these unique growing practices, allowing Indian coffee to carve a niche in international markets. The move is also expected to provide Indian farmers with better access to global opportunities, elevating the profile of Indian-grown coffee.
Coffee Production in India
India is the eighth-largest coffee producer globally, with robusta accounting for 72% of the country’s production. Over 70% of this coffee is grown in Karnataka, followed by Kerala at 20%. While up to 80% of Indian coffee is typically exported as a commodity, domestic specialty brands like Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, abCoffee, and Subko Coffee Roasters are championing single estate and specialty Indian arabica coffee, both domestically and abroad.
Boosting Export Potential
The Coffee Board of India’s new standards aim to increase the export potential of Indian coffee, especially in niche markets where specialty and high-quality coffees are in demand. The certification will not only enhance consistency but also ensure that Indian coffee is grown, processed, and sold to meet international expectations.
Timeline and Next Steps
The Coffee Board has announced that the implementation modules for the new certification processes will be completed by June 2025. Following this, consultations with stakeholders will be held to ensure the procedures are feasible and beneficial for farmers.
The Role of the Coffee Board of India
Established in 1942 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Coffee Board of India has long been a key player in promoting Indian coffee both domestically and internationally. In addition to its promotional activities, the board conducts research and provides financial assistance to small coffee growers, supporting the industry’s growth and sustainability.
This ambitious initiative by the Coffee Board of India is expected to significantly enhance the global recognition of Indian coffee. By introducing a unique certification process that emphasizes India’s distinctive coffee-growing conditions, the country aims to elevate its coffee industry, empowering farmers to compete in lucrative global markets while preserving the rich heritage and biodiversity of Indian coffee farming.
