India’s robusta coffee prices skyrocket to Rs 10,080 per 50 kg, a historic high. Growers face challenges, but the surge brings relief. Supply-demand dynamics and shifts in production contribute to this windfall, offering hope for the industry.
India’s coffee industry is witnessing a windfall as robusta coffee bean prices skyrocketed to an unprecedented Rs 10,080 per 50 kg bag as of Friday. This surge marks a historic high since the establishment of coffee estates in the Western Ghats region during the 1860s by the British.
Unlike the relatively stable pricing of Arabica coffee, known for its creamy layer in a shot, robusta prices have typically ranged between Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500 per 50 kg bag for nearly 15 years.
The surge in robusta coffee prices has brought relief and joy to coffee growers, especially those with smaller holdings who primarily cultivate robusta due to its lower input costs compared to Arabica. These growers have faced challenges such as erratic rainfall, crop damage by wild animals, and rising input and labor costs over the past decade.
G Nithin, a coffee planter in Chikkamagaluru, expressed his delight, telling TOI, “I never imagined, even in my wildest dreams, that prices would reach the Rs 10,000-mark.” Nithin had already sold a portion of his stock in anticipation of further price increases.
According to Nanda Belliappa, chairman of the Codagu Planters Association, the surge in robusta coffee prices can be attributed to the basic principles of supply and demand. Factors such as decreased coffee production in major robusta-producing countries due to adverse weather conditions and changes in cropping patterns have contributed to this windfall for Indian growers.
Sources within the Coffee Board of India also attribute the price surge to major robusta coffee growers like Vietnam and Indonesia shifting to more profitable crops such as dragon fruits and avocados. Additionally, there is an increasing demand for coffee in the cosmetics industry.
In India, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu collectively contribute to 83% of coffee production, with Karnataka alone accounting for 70% of the total output. However, coffee plantations in Karnataka have faced challenges in recent years, with many farmers selling their land to real estate developers or converting it into tourism ventures due to diminishing returns and labor shortages.
Somaiah, a coffee farmer, told TOI, “There is a severe scarcity of skilled workers to tend to the estates, coupled with a steep increase in labor costs.” Planters have increasingly relied on migrant laborers from Bengal and Assam, who bring experience from working in tea estates.
Moreover, wildlife encroachment poses a significant threat to coffee plantations, with elephants, bisons, monkeys, and giant squirrels damaging crops in search of food and water.
Despite these challenges, the surge in robusta coffee prices offers a glimmer of hope for Indian coffee growers, signaling a potential turnaround for the industry after years of struggle.
source: http://www.economictimes.indiatimes.com / The Economic Times / Home> News> Business News> News> Economy / by ET Online / April 13th, 2024
In a groundbreaking development for the coffee industry, robusta coffee prices have surged past Arabica prices to reach an unprecedented all-time high, driven by global supply shortages.
Bengaluru:
In a groundbreaking development for the coffee industry, robusta coffee prices have surged past Arabica prices to reach an unprecedented all-time high, driven by global supply shortages. The farmgate price of robusta green coffee berries soared to a record ₹172 per kg in the Wayanad market, on Wednesday marking a significant increase from ₹115 per kg during the same period last year. Additionally, the spot price of Robusta Parchment coffee beans skyrocketed to an all-time high of ₹315 per kg, compared to ₹220 per kg in March 2023. Notably, in March 2022, the rates for raw fruits and parchment stood at ₹80 and ₹145 respectively.
In the Kodagu market, the price of robusta parchment surged to Rs 14,700 per 50 kg bag, setting a new milestone. This marks the first time that the price of cherry and parchment coffee has surpassed that of Arabica. Arabica cherry coffee is currently priced between 8000-8200 per 50 kg bag, while robusta commands a higher price of over 8600 -8700 rupees.
Experts attribute this remarkable surge in prices to a combination of factors, including a surge in global demand and crop failures in leading coffee exporting countries like Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam due to extreme weather conditions. Despite challenges in yield, India’s coffee production is expected to reach 3.54 lakh tonnes, slightly up from last year’s production of 3.52 lakh tonnes, according to officials from the Coffee Board.
Former Coffee Board member, Dr. Sannuwanda Kaveerappa, predicts a further rise in robusta coffee prices, attributing it to crop destruction in Vietnam and Indonesia and the superior quality of Indian coffee compared to other regions. With Karnataka leading the way, accounting for 71% of the country’s coffee production, followed by Kerala (21%) and Tamil Nadu (5%), India remains a significant player in the global coffee market.
As coffee prices soar, it is anticipated that prices in hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops will witness an upward trend in the coming months, potentially impacting consumers. This price hike may prompt consumers to shift towards other alternatives like tea. Additionally, the rise in robusta prices may lead Arabica growers to consider transitioning to robusta cultivation due to its lower maintenance costs and rarity of borer infestation. Market analysts anticipate further increases in coffee prices in the coming days, with the possibility of maintaining stability even in the face of minor fluctuations.
source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka / by Coovercolly Indresh / Hans News Service / March 28th, 2024
The Coffee Board, established by the Government of India at Manasagangothri premises over five decades ago to act as a link between the cultural city and coffee growing Kodagu district, is now being silently shifted to Chettalli in Kodagu district.
The then Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade A.C. George had inaugurated the Coffee Board Office, opposite the University of Mysore (UoM) main entrance gate facing Mysuru-Bogadi Road on Feb. 4,1972 in the presence of the then UoM Vice-Chancellor Prof. D. Javaregowda (Dejagow). Since then, the Board has been working on coffee species development, bean development, seeds etc.
The Board also functioned as a training centre for Botany students of the UoM, JSS institutions and other Universities by appointing them as apprentice and providing them training on various aspects of coffee cultivation.
Now, the Board is being silently shifted to Chettalli in Kodagu and as a first step in this regard, the appointment of apprentices has been stopped.
Upon coming to know of its shifting, many apprentices of the Coffee Board have expressed disappointment over the shifting.
Pointing out that the Board was of great help to Botany students, they expressed apprehension that the shifting to Chettalli in Somwarpet taluk of Kodagu, will surely hit its infrastructure and research studies.
They demand that the authorities drop the shifting in the better interests of research studies as well as coffee growers.
Sources said that the Board may be shifted to Chettalli in June or July once the Lok Sabha polls get over. Meanwhile, Botany students too have opposed the shifting move. Noting that it is pointless to shift the Board to Somwarpet’s Chettalli, they decried the justification given by the higher authorities who say that research has taken a hit.
They also said, it is hard to believe the version of the authorities, wondering how the hurdles that were not there for over 50 years, have surfaced suddenly.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 23rd, 2024
Price of robusta coffee has dropped due to supply shortage and global factors.
Farm workers harvesting coffee beans at a plantation in Wayanad district of Kerala. | Photo Credit: E.M. MANOJ
The robusta coffee farmers in south India are jubilant post-harvest with their produce fetching an all-time high price.
The farmgate price of raw robusta coffee berries touched a record ₹172 a kg in Wayanad market on Saturday, as against ₹115 a kg during the corresponding period last year. Meanwhile, spot price of robusta coffee beans stood at ₹315 a kg, up from ₹210 during the same period in 2023. The price was ₹80 and ₹145 a kg for raw berries and beans respectively in March 2022.
Though the harvest is almost complete, there has been a huge shortfall in the supply of coffee to the market this year, thereby contributing to the increase in coffee prices, says sources.
Multiple factors
“We expect a decline of 30% in the production of robusta this year owing to climatic vagaries, especially the scanty blossom shower in robusta growing regions last year,” sources said.
A sharp decline in production of robusta coffee — nearly 2 million bags — in Vietnam, a major Robusta coffee growing country, has also attributed to the increase in price, the sources added. Robusta coffee production in Indonesia too dipped sharply this year, the sources added.
Notably, the price of Arabica variety of coffee has dropped below the price of robusta coffee. The farmgate price of the Arabica variety coffee was ₹305 per kg on Saturday. Though the Arabica variety always fetched a premium price in the market, it is the robusta variety that is witnessing an increase due to its low availability for the first time.
Farmers suspect that the production may decline by 25% to 30% next year too owing to a dearth of backup showers in many robusta coffee growing areas in the country.
Wayanad in Kerala, which is the largest robusta coffee producing district in the country after Coorg in Karnataka, received a rainfall of 29.3 mm in the first week of January. Major parts of the district received no rain since then.
The January showers helped in the blossoming of robusta coffee plants, farmers say. But the absence of backup showers, a major factor in the formation of berries, is a concern.
According to Coffee Board of India, the total production of coffee in the country during the 2022-23 fiscal was 3,52,000 tonnes, including 2,52,000 tons of robusta coffee.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Kerala / by E M Manoj / March 24th, 2024
In a significant development for the Indian coffee sector, the Coffee Board of India organised a buyer-seller meeting at Dubai, marking a new chapter in the industry’s global expansion.
The event, held on the sidelines of Gulfood 2024, was jointly organised by the Indian Embassy in UAE and the Coffee Board of India. Speaking on the Occasion, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, highlighted Dubai’s strategic role as a global trade hub, and the upcoming Bharat Mart at Jebel Ali free zone as enablers for India’s global coffee ambitions. He also emphasized Dubai’s unique position as a logistical powerhouse, boasting a busy port and efficient airport, offering an ideal platform for Indian coffee producers to showcase their diverse blends directly to international buyers and establish lasting brands.
The meeting featured a presentation by KG Jagadeesha, CEO of the Coffee Board of India, who provided a comprehensive overview of the country’s coffee industry. He highlighted the vast coffee plantations spanning over half a million hectares, supporting millions of farming families, and the impressive production and export rates that surpass domestic consumption. Jagadeesh emphasized India’s significant contribution to the international coffee market, particularly as a leading exporter of instant coffee.
India’s coffee industry, with its balanced production of Arabica and Robusta beans, has witnessed remarkable growth since the establishment of the Coffee Board in 1950. Notably, 35% of the country’s coffee exports now comprise value-added and specialty coffees, showcasing a shift towards premium offerings. India’s coffee is unique in the sense that it is shade-grown and the Robusta variety is treated at par with Arabica in the Western market. This event not only celebrated the distinct flavors and rich heritage of Indian coffee but also marked a strategic move to leverage Dubai’s logistical strengths.
source: http://www.newsonair.gov.in / News Services Division, All India Radio / February 22nd, 2024
To promote capacity building in this niche field, the Coffee Board has sent a proposal to the govt to establish a ‘Centre of Excellence for Coffee’ in Bengaluru.
Image used for representational purposes only.
Bengaluru :
With coffee doing well on global price charts, there is an increasing demand for more skilled labour. To promote capacity building in this niche field, the Coffee Board of India has sent a proposal to the government to establish a ‘Centre of Excellence for Coffee’ in Bengaluru. Currently, the board has limited seats for its programmes and aims to introduce newer short-term courses for coffee enthusiasts.
Board Chief Executive Officer and Secretary Dr KG Jagadeesha said, “We run a one-year Post Graduate Diploma in Coffee Quality Management (PGDCQM), which is highly sought after. It is run in the Coffee Quality Division in Bengaluru and students also visit the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) in Chikkamagaluru for three months. Students get industry experiences such as visiting cafes, understanding roasteries and understanding the packaging and promotion. However, we can take only 15 individuals and the applications that come in are more than 500.”
The applicants are thoroughly reviewed based on sensory evaluation, interview and academic records and should have a bachelor’s degree in botany, zoology, food sciences, bioscience or agricultural sciences. The proposal submitted to the government is part of the five-year budgetary renewal during which the board lists down its vision and plans for the next term.
“The Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) proposal entails an exclusive centre for coffee and various skilling and upskilling programmes,” Jagadeesha said.
‘Will train 5K grads to make espresso’
“Even these 15 people who pass PG Diploma are placed in multinational companies within days and some even go to the Middle East with promising career opportunities. We need more seats as the market is expanding,” Jagadeesha explained. The board is awaiting approval and has also requested for a new facility to hold classes for at least 100 select students.
It is also looking at several upskilling initiatives in the next five years and training around one lakh women from rural areas and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to make coffees the right way.
“We are also going to train 5,000 graduates on how to make espresso coffee and help them explore the opportunities in the coffee business,” the CEO said.
There is a severe shortage of baristas in the industry. Coffee Board has also introduced a programme of training 1,000 baristas in the next three years and has already trained 150 so far, he added.
The short-term course for coffee enthusiasts, called the ‘Kaapi Shashtra’, for the year is tentatively scheduled for March 18-22 (exclusive batches) and interested individuals can keep a watch on the website. The main objective of the programme is to impart skills related to latest technologies in coffee roasting.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Puran Choudhary / February 12th, 2024
Jagadeesha added that there is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base.
The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience.
Coffee opportunities in India are very high. Despite the high price, Indian coffee is most preferred globally. The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience. Cafes have transformed into work stations for startups and this is good for the Indian economy, said Dr KJ Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board, in a conversation with the editors and staff of The New Sunday Express. Excerpts of the interview:
Tell us about the coffee scenario and the pricing concerns ….
Coffee in India is doing well, especially over the last three years, but we are not the price setters. Reason being, India’s overall contribution is around 4%. Brazil and Vietnam contribute 60% of the global production, and they set the price. But in the last few years there is supply disruption in Brazil and there is a shortage in supply globally. So, we are happy as Indian coffee is getting a good price. India is the 7th largest in terms of production and 5th largest in exports.
Can you please explain about exports?
Our exports are better than our production. We export, re-import and export all our coffee. Most of the instant coffee is made from coffee imported from cheaper destinations. Not a single Indian coffee bean is left unsold. There is very high demand for Indian coffee that even if we double production, traders say they will sell it. Indian coffees are expensive because they are grown under shade. Unlike in other countries like Brazil where it is open cultivation. When you grow under shade, coffee production is less by around 50%. But the quality is very good. This coffee takes longer to mature and has some unique characteristics that are not present in other coffee.
How is the coffee export business?
Around 80-90% of coffee is exported as green coffee. Green coffee can be kept for a year and usually, roasted coffee lasts only 15 days. Beyond that, the quality comes down. We export green coffee and then the seller blends it with different beans to get different notes. We export to 120 countries. Europe is our biggest market. We export about 60% of coffee grown here.
What about the rising number of private, instant and star-rated cafés and types of coffees served?
I am happy they are increasing. There is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base. In other countries, people drink 8-9 kg of coffee per annum, per capita, but we are 50-100 grams. People who are getting into coffee now are the new generation who feel coffee is the most affectionate and fashionable drink. They love to drink coffee even if it’s high priced. They drink coffee for the experience. Ambience should be great and products should be innovative. They don’t like drinking the same coffee every day. Cafes now have become work spaces where people exchange ideas and conduct business. Many start-ups are running their businesses or whole companies from these cafes. This is how we expect and want the coffee industry to grow. Growers will get better prices, employment will be generated and GDP will get a boost.
How does coffee compete with tea?
Tea and coffee are complementary beverages, not competitors. Consumers typically don’t switch between them. Coffee consumption, especially among the younger generation, is on the rise. Tea remains affordable and easy to make, while making quality coffee requires skill. Many aren’t aware that if coffee is boiled above 90 degrees Celsius, it’s a waste. In future, skill-based courses will be introduced for over one lakh self-help women’s groups, and also 5,000 college graduates will be trained.
What is the situation in Karnataka?
Karnataka is a leader in Indian coffee production, accounting for around 70%, though we have 50% of the area. In the last 3-5 years, the crop has been reasonably good and prices too.
Hasn’t climate change affected coffee production?
It has, as coffee is a sensitive crop. Even if there is a 15-day delay in rainfall, during March and April, the crop gets affected to a large extent. Climate change is something that needs to be taken seriously and addressed. The Coffee Board has taken several measures to address it like bringing some climate-resilient varieties, training farmers and providing incentives.
Did drought affect coffee plantations?
Drought effect was relatively low. The reason is that even if there is a 50% reduction in rainfall, coffee will still grow. The yield might be less, but 800-900 mm of rainfall is enough for the plantation and the impact has been minimal.
Which is the best variety of coffee?
While there are many varieties, one of the best is Chandragiri. Farmers also say that it is superior compared to any other variety across the globe. The yield is good and it is resistant to most of the rust viruses. The cupping quality is very good.
What about collaborative research?
Research should not be restricted to scientists and labs. It should be a joint effort between growers and scientists. Work on this started 2-3 years ago and we have identified elite robusta plants. Growers and scientists together shortlisted around 60-70 of them and found 8-10 varieties promising. They will be released as tissue culture and MoUs are being signed.
How many varieties do we have?
Right now eight have been developed in collaboration with farmers. Otherwise coffee has many varieties. Some 28 varieties have been given to us by private firms. There are cases where a variety does well in other countries, but not in India.
Do we have more varieties when compared to other countries?
Brazil may have more varieties than us. Other than Brazil, we have more. It does not mean anything. Farmers prefer the leading variety. We have also kept some varieties for cupping. If somebody says that I want quality and I am not worried about production then we have Selection 5 and 9 varieties. These two are excellent in cupping and taste.
What are the proposals before the Coffee Board in the coming days?
We have developed a new plan and it has been submitted to the government. It includes many things. To address labour shortage there is a plan for mechanisation. Second is quality improvement. Many say Indian coffee is excellent on the plant. But after harvesting, since it is poorly handled, quality dips. Importance is being given to harvesting and storing. Fermentation is important. It is done using different techniques to get different aromas. We are also looking at franchising India Coffee Houses to rural areas.
Are you also planning to add more coffee varieties to India Coffee Houses to compete with private players?
Coffee Board is a nodal agency to promote coffee as a sector. India Coffee Houses are not meant for competing. Given that there are a lot of nostalgic memories about them and people love to come there, we are working on expanding the menu. At the Queen’s Road Coffee House, the Board has collaborated with a social organisation that deals with specially-abled people. We complement each other.
How do people perceive the addition of chicory in coffee, considering its potential health implications?
The debate around chicory’s health impact exists. Chicory was brought in during the Second World War to meet the rising demand among soldiers when production was less. It continues to be blended even now. However, coffee has various health benefits. It’s beneficial for the heart and kidney, apart from being a refreshment. When chicory is mixed, the benefits of coffee get diluted.
How has urbanisation impacted coffee production?
Urbanisation is affecting everything, but its effect on coffee production is relatively limited due to the remote locations where coffee is typically grown.
How is the Board addressing man-elephant conflict?
It poses a significant challenge in coffee-growing regions, causing fear among residents and reluctance among labourers. The Board is actively engaging with the forest department and other authorities to address these issues.
Are there any courses being offered by the Board related to coffee for graduates?
We offer postgraduate diploma programmes and short courses focused on coffee, covering topics including cafe management and coffee trading.
What are the byproducts derived from coffee beans?
The use of coffee beans in the cosmetic industry is increasing. The leaf and pulp are used for skincare and makeup products. The leftover coffee after brewing is also used in making byproducts.
How many farmers are involved in the coffee industry, and is this number expected to increase?
There are about 4.7 lakh farmers working currently in India and it will increase in the coming years.
Are coffee plantations primarily done by small-scale farmers, or is there a monopoly in the industry?
It is a myth that coffee plantations are managed by affluent farmers. The reality is that 99% of the plantations are managed by small-scale farmers. Only around 1% of farmers are considered large growers but they occupy around 30% of the land.
What do you say about coffee tours gaining popularity?
Coffee tourism is gaining traction, providing coffee growers with an additional source of income. However, it’s crucial for both tourists and growers to responsibly manage activities to ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem as regions where coffee is grown are in Western and Eastern Ghats.
What other types of businesses can be done with coffee besides opening a coffee shop?
People can establish their own coffee brand with their estate, offer consultancy services, provide technology solutions such as market information, engage in trading and roasting and explore businesses centered around deriving coffee byproducts.
Coffee Board has also ventured online and started selling, how has that progressed?
Customers came to the Board and requested us to start e-commerce so that they could easily purchase online. Today we have entire operations in the basement which has a roastery, grinder and 24×7 packing staff. As soon as we get an order we pack it and dispatch it. The initiative is doing well.
Does the Board have enough staff or are there too many vacancies?
There are of course limitations to hiring more staff. Currently, we have a vacancy of 50 people with a total sanctioned strength of 587. We are looking to expand in the north eastern regions and we need a lot of people to convince farmers, educate them and handle estates. We are also looking at promotion both in domestic and international events to build the brand value of Indian coffee and its quality.
Can coffee be grown on terrace gardens?
Coffee plants can be grown anywhere, outdoors or inside homes, however, it will not yield commercially viable beans or fruits. Some might have berries too but when you roast it and make a cup of coffee it doesn’t taste like coffee. Coffee requires an elevation of more than 500 metres above sea level and secondly, the rainfall has to be good. It also requires optimum shade to grow.
How successful was the coffee festival in terms of partnerships with other players?
We had more than 20-30 international brands who were present, around 200-300 Indian brands participated and around 400-500 buyer-sellers met formally. Strong relations were built that not just last for one year but go on for decades, once the buyer finds the perfect blend for himself there is no going back.
What do you want to say to youngsters who want to start a coffee business?
Coffee is a very passionate profession. I’ve seen people who make a profit not because they’re working for it but it’s about passion. They like growing coffee and living on the estate. I have seen Baristas who are passionate about making better coffee every day, they enjoy it.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / February 11th, 2024
The Indian coffee market amounts $0.5 billion in 2023, and is expected to grow at 9.04% CAGR.
Coffee enthusiasts and stakeholders worldwide have gathered in Bengaluru for the fifth World Coffee Conference (WCC) 2023.
The four-day event, happening once every four years and being hosted in India for the first time, aims to discuss sustainability through circular economy, regenerative agriculture, and innovation within the coffee industry. The conference has attracted more than 24,000 delegates from over 80 countries.
Major players in the Indian coffee landscape, including Nestle India , Tata Coffee, and Bru, as well as artisanal brands like Blue Tokai and Narasu’s Coffee, are participating. The event serves as a platform for Indian coffee growers and makers to discuss financing mechanisms, quality control, startup innovations, and trade opportunities.
Matt Chitharanjan, co-founder and chief executive officer at Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, commented on the significance of the event. “The WCC is unique in its focus on coffee-producing nations, offering India an excellent opportunity to showcase its growing coffee community and industry advancements,” he told Business Standard.
According to Statista, the Indian coffee market is worth $0.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate of 9.04 per cent until 2028. To further highlight India’s coffee production, the event has organised tours to coffee plantations in Coorg, Chikkamagalur, and Kodagu Valley.
Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, emphasised the conference’s commitment to sustainable practices. “As we gather in Bengaluru, the WCC underscores the critical importance of sustainability, waste reduction, and inclusivity in shaping a greener future for the coffee industry,” he said.
An exhibition displaying the entire coffee value chain, from bean to cup, has been set up, drawing considerable interest from attendees. Pavilions representing India’s major coffee-growing states, such as Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, showcase the diverse range of coffee produced in the country.
A spokesperson from Nestlé India, the makers of the Nescafé brand, also expressed support for the WCC’s mission. “We are fully aligned with the WCC’s efforts to build a sustainable coffee industry that focuses on circular economy and regenerative agricultural practices,” they stated.
The WCC is a collaborative effort involving the International Coffee Organization, the Coffee Board of India, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Government of Karnataka, and various stakeholders in the coffee industry.
source: http://www.business-standard.com / Business Standard / Home> Industry> News / by Akshara Srivatsava, New Delhi / September 27th, 2023
The fifth edition of the World Coffee Conference is coming to India. The event is set to unite the global coffee industry on sustainable topics of discussion, including circular economy and regenerative agriculture.
Since the 18th century, commercial coffee has been thriving in India. Over time, the country has evolved from a tea drinking nation to one with a strong coffee identity.
Coffee is traditionally cultivated in the Western Ghats, and is rapidly spreading to the areas of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha and the North East states. This year however, all eyes will be on Bangalore, the largest city of the southern Indian state of Karnataka, as it hosts one of the largest global events in the coffee sector.
For the first time since 2016, the International Coffee Organisation (ICO), a multilateral intergovernmental organisation for coffee, and its Members, will host the World Coffee Conference (WCC) from 25 to 28 September.
The event is foreseen in the International Coffee Agreement 2007 treaty, in which the organisation aims to host every four to five years. The WCC first took place in London, the United Kingdom, in 2001; followed by Salvador, Brazil in 2005; Guatemala City, Guatemala in 2010; and Addis Adaba, Ethiopia in 2016.
COVID-19 pressed pause on the last scheduled event, and now, the world is ready to unite in an Asian country for the first time.
“The renewed interest and commitment by India to organise this high-level event is exciting. It will not only be a forum to discuss critical topics for the global sector, but to be involved in a technologist exhibition, and technical workshops and a Growers’ Conclave run by the Coffee Board of India. We will see top-tier company representatives, government representatives, United Nations partners, and even Vietnam will be coming with more than 20 delegates. They see it as a huge opportunity to showcase the way they produce and trade coffee,” says ICO’s Head of Operations, Gerardo Patacconi.
The iconic Bangalore Palace Grounds will be the host venue for the international conference and coffee technology fair. The Government of India will host the WCC 2023, chaired by the Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal.
The WCC will be held in conjunction with the G20 Summit under the country’s presidency. It will also integrate the 5th CEOs and Global Leaders Forum, and the 136th Session of the International Coffee Council.
All 75 ICO member countries are ready to attend the WCC, with the conference expected to attract more than 1500 registered delegates and 10,000 business visitors from across the globe.
WCC 2023 will bring together representatives from government, the private sector, development partners, as well as civil society and academia, coffee producers and importers, leading coffee associations, global coffee experts, roasters and more.
They will gather to discuss and debate on coffee market trends, technology, and best practices for building a circular coffee economy, regenerative agriculture, sustainability through consumption, innovation and access to finance, with the goal to collaborate towards building a sustainable coffee industry from bean to cup.
Guest speakers will present on this year’s event theme, ‘Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture,’ addressing market trends, challenges, best practices, technologies, and strategic and financial solutions to build a resilient and sustainable future for the coffee sector, and production issues surrounding sustainability and cultivation, living income, and climate change, in compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals and Environmental, Social and Governance practices.
“On 1 October 2022, the International Coffee Day, ICO members decided on this topic theme. The reason is that there is a growing interest and opportunity at the different levels of the supply chain on circularity. This year we are also launching the Coffee Development Report on circular economy, and we are also looking into how to move circularity into action,” Patacconi says.
“There is huge opportunity for increasing jobs and income through circularity, so transforming waste, whatever form that takes, into a business opportunity is important, as is the work we match with living income for livelihood and prosperity of farmers. There are scattered, good examples, but we need to bring them together so that everybody can have access to this knowledge.”
Patacconi notes there are three levels of outcomes expected from this year’s high-level discussions at the “Davos of Coffee”. First, is a high level of engagement of both policy makers and industry around the event themes, including opportunities to discuss trends in the coffee sector, and changing regulatory framework.
The second is to determine practical solutions in terms of technology that could be made available, and third, is about access to financial resources, knowledge, and markets.
“Through the ICO we really want to promote the creation of a centre for coffee circular economy, which we are now advancing with the help of our members. We are also joining the Lavazza Foundation and United Nations agencies such as UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) and ITC (International Trade Centre) for the creation of Coffee Circular Economy Hub to share knowledge and help implement win-win solutions from coffee farms to cup,” Patacconi says.
While it’s important that policy makers are engaged in this year’s WCC, Dr KG Jagadeesha, CEO of the Coffee Board of India, says it’s crucial to have participation from producers.
“It’s extremely important for everyone across the value chain to attend, including consuming countries. This event is exclusively dedicated to growers, and we invite growers from different coffee growing nations such as Vietnam, Brazil, Central and South America, and African countries to attend,” he says.
The international community is also invited to visit India’s exotic coffee growing estates from 23 to 24 September to appreciate the unique qualities of its thick, shade-grown canopy coffee.
“India is currently the sixth largest grower of coffee and fifth largest exporter in the world. We have half a million families dependent on cultivating coffee in India. Two million people are directly or indirectly involved in coffee value chain, and the coffee sector in India, especially domestic coffee market, is expanding. The percentage of youth who are passionate, dynamic drinkers is expanding. They are highly qualified, and their tech-savvy connection to social media and influence is driving the market.”
For a traditional tea-drinking nation, which is low-cost and easy to prepare, Jagadeesha says the renewed uptake of coffee consumption is impressive and a sign of development because living incomes and standards have improved, thereby allowing the younger generation to afford the luxury of quality coffee.
“The evolution of coffee in India is not just about access to coffee chains, it’s about offering an experience for the youth to gather and connect in urban areas, a place to unite and exchange ideas,” Jagadeesha says. “Bangalore, in particular, is the Silicon Valley of India. It’s home to a lot of technology parks and I.T companies, as well as the highest number of technical colleges. It’s the place to be for coffee. It’s a cosmopolitan city with a significant proportion of foreign nationals, and a large number of coffee chains, including Blue Tokai, Koinonia Coffee Roasters, and Third Wave Coffee have all made their mark here.
“This is a city worth exploring for coffee, and a country that invites the world to its doorstep and share its excitement for the future of possibilities.”
Karnataka gives impetus to coffee with focus on sustainability through circular economy and regenerative agriculture. The state is the indisputable leader and produces over 70% of the total coffee produced in the country. It produced 2.33 lakh metric tonne of coffee in the last financial year, which is the highest coffee production by any state in the country.
By focusing on sustainability through circular economy approach, the state is implementing practices that aim to minimise waste, maximise efficiency in resources, and encourage environment-friendly practices throughout the coffee production process. In addition, the adoption of regenerative agriculture can enable to restore and enhance soil health leading to a more robust and sustainable coffee plantation.
The key coffee producing districts known as ‘The Land of Coffee’ are Hassan, Kodagu, Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru. From a national perspective, the key production areas of coffee are Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, which aggregate a total production of 92% in the country.
Going by the capability and competence of coffee growers, the state government is looking to unlock access to global coffee markets and tap the promising opportunities. In this regard, Bengaluru is playing host to the 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) 2023 for the first time in Asia from September 25-28, 2023, at the Bangalore Palace.
The organisers are the International Coffee Organization (ICO), in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Government of Karnataka and the coffee industry provides unparalleled business opportunities for global coffee stakeholders. For the four-day event, WCC has appointed Rohan Bopanna, India’s doubles tennis player & Arjuna awardee as its Brand Ambassador.
Evolving around the theme of the conference: “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture,” the event will feature conference, exhibition, skill-building workshops, CEOs & global leaders forum, growers conclave and a myriad of networking events, all focused on advancing sustainability in the coffee industry.
It will also include producers, curers, roasters, exporters, policy makers, researchers and everyone passionate about coffee from 80+ countries to join at WCC 2023, with a 4-day intensive programme focused on building a sustainable coffee industry through discussion, debate, and collaboration, said the organisers.
During the unveiling of the WCC 2023 Logo and Theme- “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture”, Dr S Selvakumar, Principal Secretary of the Karnataka Commerce & Industries Department, said that, Karnataka is undoubtedly the coffee capital of India. “There is tremendous opportunity for investments across the coffee value chain- from bean to cup right from equipment companies, coffee machines, soluble coffee brands as well as café chains. This in turn leads to increased employment opportunities for our talent from farm to cafes. Therefore, we are privileged to be the host state for this event.”
Dr K G Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board of India, said, “WCC 2023 holds great promise for the global coffee sector, specially the Indian coffee industry fostering growth and sustainable practices while showcasing its rich coffee heritage to the world.
WCC 2023 will host an impressive array of participants, including ICO member country representatives, coffee growers, coffee roasters, coffee curers, farm to cup industry, HoReCa, café owners, coffee nations, policy makers, start-ups, R&D and students.
Bengaluru awaits to host this extraordinary global gathering, which will showcase commitment towards sustainability and innovation in the coffee industry. Previous editions of the conference were successfully held in England (2001), Brazil (2005), Guatemala (2010), and Ethiopia (2016), receiving immense appreciation from coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
source: http://www.fnbnews.com / FnBNews.com , Food & Beverage News / Home> Top News / August 02nd, 2023
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