coffee

How to Export Coffee from India: Step-by-Step Guide

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  • by MI September 17, 2025

India is the world’s sixth-largest producer of coffee, famous for its Arabica and Robusta varieties. Indian coffee enjoys strong demand in global markets like Europe, USA, Japan, and the Middle East. If you are planning to enter the coffee export business, this step-by-step guide will help you understand the process in 2025.

Step 1: Register Your Business

  • Choose a legal structure: Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, or Private Limited Company.
  • Register with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
  • Get GST registration if required.

Step 2: Obtain Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

IEC is mandatory for any export business in India. Apply online through the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) portal.

Step 3: Register with Coffee Board of India

Every coffee exporter must obtain a Coffee Board Registration Cum Membership Certificate (RCMC). This ensures compliance with export regulations and eligibility for government schemes.

Step 4: Product Quality and Certifications

  • Ensure quality as per international standards.
  • Obtain certifications like Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, ISO if applicable.
  • Use proper packaging and labeling mentioning origin, weight, and certifications.

Step 5: Find International Buyers

  • Use B2B platforms like Alibaba, TradeIndia, IndiaMART, Global Sources.
  • Connect with importers via LinkedIn and trade fairs.
  • Join export promotion councils and chambers of commerce.

Step 6: Complete Export Documentation

  • Invoice & Packing List
  • Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
  • Certificate of Origin
  • FSSAI Clearance (for food safety compliance)
  • Phytosanitary Certificate (if required)

Step 7: Shipping and Logistics

Choose between sea freight (bulk shipments) and air freight (small premium orders). Partner with reliable freight forwarders and logistics providers.

Step 8: Payments and Insurance

  • Use Letter of Credit (LC), advance payments, or secure payment gateways.
  • Take export credit insurance to protect against payment defaults.

Top Coffee Export Markets for India in 2025

  • Italy
  • Germany
  • Belgium
  • USA
  • Japan
  • Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia)

Conclusion

The Indian coffee export business offers huge opportunities in 2025. By following the right procedures—business registration, Coffee Board certification, quality packaging, and finding international buyers—you can establish a profitable export venture. With growing demand for organic and premium coffee, now is the perfect time to start exporting coffee from India.

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