Coffee Exports Fall By 12.5%

Mumbai: The country's coffee exports stood at 203,738 tonnes during January 1-November 22 period, down 12.49 per cent from a year ago. Exports have declined because of weak overseas demand, analysts said. During the period, exports of arabica variety declined 29 per cent to 40,067 tonne. Robusta coffee exports fell 15 per cent to 104,036 tonne. Overseas demand for coffee was slack as Indian rates were quoting higher than international prices. Nevertheless, instant coffee exports during the period rose to 45,304 tonnes from 23,486 tonnes a year ago. Re-exports were down at 14,331 tonnes from 29,709 tonnes a year ago. Re-exports are exports of imported coffee after value addition. Coffee Board allows export of Plantation PB, Plantation A, and Plantation Black varieties among others in the Arabica grade. Robusta coffee exports comprise varieties such as Plantation Bits, Plantation Bulk, and Cherry Brown.