Research and Development: The Coffee Board's Contribution to Coffee Quality

Research and Development: The Coffee Board’s Contribution to Coffee Quality

By AdminPublished On: February 13, 2025Categories: Coffee Board0 Comments

The Coffee Board of India has been instrumental in elevating the quality of Indian coffee through its dedicated research and development (R&D) initiatives. Established in 1942 under the Coffee Act, the Board operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, with a mandate to promote the growth and development of the coffee sector. Its multifaceted approach encompasses research, quality control, and support for coffee growers, all aimed at enhancing the quality of Indian coffee to meet international standards.

Research and Development Initiatives

At the heart of the Coffee Board’s R&D efforts is the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI), located in Balehonnur, Karnataka. Established in 1925, the CCRI is renowned as a premier research station in South East Asia, focusing on various disciplines such as agronomy, soil science, botany, entomology, plant physiology, biotechnology, and post-harvest technology. The institute’s primary objective is to increase both the productivity and quality of coffee grown in India.

The CCRI boasts a well-established farm spanning approximately 130.94 hectares, with 80.26 hectares dedicated to coffee research. This includes 51.32 hectares for Arabica and 28.94 hectares for Robusta varieties. The institute’s research farm is equipped with a network of check dams, providing a regulated water source to the plantations, which feature a diverse range of shade tree species under which coffee is cultivated. This setup allows for comprehensive studies on various aspects of coffee cultivation, including pest and disease management, soil health, and crop improvement.

In addition to the CCRI, the Coffee Board has established regional research stations across different agro-climatic zones in India. These stations are located in Chettalli (Karnataka), R.V. Nagar (Andhra Pradesh), Chundale (Kerala), Thandigudi (Tamil Nadu), and Diphu (Assam). Each station focuses on region-specific research to address local challenges and develop appropriate technologies for coffee cultivation.

Quality Control and Upgradation

Ensuring high standards of coffee quality is a paramount concern for the Coffee Board. The Quality Control Division, headquartered in Bengaluru, collaborates with various research disciplines to upgrade the quality of coffee produced in India. This division conducts regular inspections, sets quality standards, and offers certification processes to maintain consistency across different coffee grades.

In a recent initiative, the Coffee Board launched a community-based program aimed at enhancing crop quality. This project involves forming community farmer groups at the hobli (cluster of villages) level to gather information about the quality of coffee grown in various zones and implement necessary improvements. Each group comprises approximately 100 growers who collect and report on the quality of coffee produced in their respective villages. If any enhancements are needed, experts from the Coffee Board provide appropriate guidance to the growers. This initiative not only helps maintain quality but also ensures that Indian coffee remains competitive in the international market.

Impact on Exporters and International Standards

India is the sixth-largest exporter of coffee globally, accounting for about 5.20% of world coffee exports. In 2023, the country produced approximately 3.42 lakh metric tonnes of coffee, with Robusta accounting for nearly 70% of the total production. The Coffee Board’s relentless focus on research and quality control has been pivotal in enabling Indian coffee exporters to meet stringent international standards.

Through its R&D initiatives, the Board has developed high-yielding, pest-resistant coffee varieties, improved cultivation practices, and advanced post-harvest processing techniques. These advancements have led to the production of high-quality coffee beans that meet the flavor profiles and quality parameters demanded by international buyers. Moreover, the Board’s quality certification processes instill confidence among international buyers regarding the consistency and safety of Indian coffee.

Altus Exports: Facilitating Global Reach for Indian Manufacturers

While the Coffee Board’s efforts have significantly enhanced the quality of Indian coffee, exporting this premium product to international markets requires strategic partnerships and efficient supply chain management. This is where Altus Exports plays a crucial role.

As a premier merchant exporter, Altus Exports specializes in delivering the best of India’s products, including textiles, handicrafts, chemicals, and food products, to the global market. The company’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction makes it an ideal partner for Indian manufacturers aiming to expand their international footprint.

How Altus Exports Can Assist Indian Coffee Manufacturers

Quality Assurance: Altus Exports prioritizes quality at every step, from sourcing to packaging. The company’s rigorous quality control processes ensure that products meet the highest international standards, which is crucial for coffee manufacturers aiming to establish a strong presence in global markets.
Extensive Network: With a robust network of trusted suppliers, manufacturers, and artisans across India, Altus Exports offers a diverse range of products and swift response times to meet the needs of international buyers. This extensive network can help coffee manufacturers access new markets and distribution channels.
Customer-Centric Approach: Altus Exports works closely with its partners to understand their requirements and provide tailored solutions. The company’s dedicated support team is always available to assist, ensuring a seamless export experience for coffee manufacturers.
Sustainable Practices: Committed to eco-friendly and ethical business practices, Altus Exports supports fair trade and ethical labor standards. This alignment with sustainability is increasingly important in international markets, where consumers are more conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchases.
Competitive Pricing: Through efficient supply chain management, Altus Exports offers high-quality products at competitive prices, delivering exceptional value to clients. This competitive pricing can help Indian coffee manufacturers position their products attractively in international markets.
Global Reach: With extensive international trade experience, Altus Exports exports to numerous countries. The company’s global market expertise ensures seamless transactions and regulatory compliance, which are critical for coffee manufacturers navigating the complexities of international trade.