Exporting Indian Coffee: Top Importers, Coffee Board & Your Success Guide in 2024

Explore the world of Indian coffee exports! Explore top importers, benefits of Coffee Board membership, fees, validity, and all you need to be an international coffee exporter.

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India’s Coffee History

India holds a rich coffee heritage, and its aromatic beans are cherished globally. If you’re considering venturing into exporting Indian coffee, this blog equips you with essential knowledge. We’ll delve into the top importers of Indian coffee, explore the significant role of the Coffee Board, and answer vital questions about membership fees and validity.

Indian Coffee: The Top 5 Importing Countries

Indian coffee enjoys a warm reception worldwide. Here are some leading importers:

  • Italy: The largest importer, favoring Robusta beans for classic espresso blends.
  • Germany: Germany is a significant coffee variety importer, appreciating Arabica and Robusta.
  • Belgium: A major European importer, known for its thriving coffee roasting industry.
  • Russia: A growing market for all things coffee, with a rising demand for Indian beans.
  • United States: A diverse coffee market, showing increasing interest in Indian specialty coffees.

Understanding these top markets will help tailor your export strategy to specific preferences.

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The Coffee Board: Your Coffee Export Partner

Established in 1936, the Coffee Board of India plays a vital role in promoting and developing the Indian coffee industry. Membership in the Coffee Board offers a multitude of advantages for exporters:

  • Market Access and Promotion: Gain access to international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and marketing resources to expand your reach.
  • Technical Assistance and Training: Benefit from expert advice and training programs on various aspects of coffee cultivation, processing, and export regulations.
  • Quality Certification Schemes: Leverage Coffee Board certification schemes to enhance the credibility and marketability of your coffee in international markets.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry professionals, fostering valuable partnerships and knowledge sharing.
  • Policy Advocacy: The Coffee Board represents your interests before the government, influencing policies that benefit exporters.

Coffee Board Membership: Fees and Validity Explained

The Coffee Board offers various membership categories, each with its own fee structure and validity period:

  • Registration Certificate (RC): Mandatory for exporters (one-time fee, valid for five years or current Foreign Trade Policy, whichever is earlier).
  • Curing Works Registration: For coffee curing establishments (fees vary by size, five-year validity).
  • Instant Coffee Manufacturers Registration: For manufacturers of instant coffee (one-time fee, five-year validity).

Documents Require for New Registration

For Fresh RCMC

The following support documents should be self-attested by the Firm with seal and signature (Please keep the following documents in pdf formats before filling out the RCMC application for
upload)

  • IEC Certificate (Mandatory)
  • GST registration Certificate (Mandatory)
  • PAN (Mandatory)
  • FSSAI or MS&ME certificate only for the Manufacturer Exporter (Mandatory)
  • Bank Performance Letter (Mandatory) – with below attached Format
  • Authorized Signatory of Bank (Mandatory) – with below attached Format
  • Authorized Signatory of the Firm/Company (if applicable) – with below attached Format
  • Certificate of Incorporation for only Pvt Ltd and Public Ltd Companies (Not Mandatory)

For Renewal of RCMC

  • Copy of RCMC issued by Coffee Board (Mandatory)
  • Import Export Code Certificate (Mandatory)
  • Goods and Service Tax (GST) Registration Certificate (Mandatory)

Fees for Fresh RCMC and Renewal & Revival of RCMC

Rs. 6,200/- (Rupees Six thousand two hundred only) Plus applicable GST @ 18% shall be remitted
through Online only. Keep the remittance details ready for furnishing in the online application
form.

FAQs on Exporting Indian Coffee

  1. Q: What are the steps involved in exporting coffee from India?

    Ans: 1. Obtain an Exporter’s License and potentially a Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) from the Coffee Board.
    2. Source high-quality coffee beans, considering Robusta or Arabica varieties and specific certifications.
    3. Ensure packaging meets international food safety standards and complies with market regulations.
    4. Find international buyers through trade fairs, online platforms, or industry connections.
    5. Arrange for customs clearance, logistics, and necessary documentation.

  2. Q: Who are the top importers of Indian coffee?

    Ans: 1. Italy (Robusta)
    2. Germany (Arabica & Robusta)
    3. Russia (Robusta)
    3. Belgium (Specialty Arabica)
    4. United Arab Emirates (Re-export hub)
    Other major importers include the United States, Japan, and France.

  3. Q: Is Coffee Board membership mandatory for coffee exporters?

    Ans: Yes, an RCMC from the Coffee Board is mandatory for exporters.

  4. Q: What are the different types of Coffee Board memberships?

    Ans: 1. Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) – For exporters
    2. Curing Works Registration – For coffee curing facilities
    3. Huller Registration – For coffee hulling units
    4. Roaster Registration – For coffee roasting businesses (optional)

  5. Q: What are the benefits of Coffee Board membership for exporters?

    Ans: 1. Market access and promotion support (trade fairs, buyer-seller meets)
    2. Technical assistance and training on cultivation, processing, and export regulations
    3. Leveraging Coffee Board branding and promotion initiatives for Indian coffee
    4. Networking opportunities with industry professionals
    5. Policy advocacy for exporter-friendly regulations

  6. Q: What are the fees and validity of Coffee Board membership (RCMC)?

    Ans: The RCMC usually involves a one-time fee with a validity of five years or the current Foreign Trade Policy (whichever is earlier).

  7. Q: What are the quality certifications for exporting Indian coffee?

    Ans: The Coffee Board offers certification schemes for various quality parameters like origin, processing methods, and roasting profiles. Adherence to international food safety standards is also crucial.

  8. Q: How can I find reliable international buyers for Indian coffee?

    Ans: Participate in Coffee Board-organized trade fairs and buyer-seller meets.
    Utilize online platforms specializing in the coffee trade.
    Network with industry associations and attend relevant events.

  9. Q: What are some challenges faced by Indian coffee exporters?

    Ans: Price fluctuations in the global coffee market
    Competition from other major coffee-producing countries
    Meeting stringent quality standards of importing countries
    Navigating complex international trade regulations

  10. Q: What resources are available to help me learn more about Indian coffee exports?

    Ans: The Coffee Board of India website (https://coffeeboard.gov.in/) offers extensive information on regulations, certifications, and export procedures.
    Government export promotion agencies and industry associations provide valuable guidance and resources.
    Online publications and industry reports can offer market insights and trends.

Conclusion

By exporting Indian coffee, you’re not just building a business; you’re contributing to a legacy of quality and flavor. Partnering with the Coffee Board equips you with the knowledge, resources, and connections to navigate the global coffee market successfully. So, embark on your coffee export journey today and brew a world of success!

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