India And The Global Coffee Trade: A Study Of Legal And Trade Dynamics
- IJLLR Journal
- Mar 12
- 2 min read
Viksha Bollamma M R, LL.M., School of Law, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru
ABSTRACT
India ranks among the top five coffee-exporting countries across the globe. According to the World IP Organization, a minimum of 3 million cups of coffee are consumed across the globe. With a distinct position as a producer of high-quality Robusta and Arabica beans and a player in the instant coffee segment, India has enormous potential in the trade market. This paper focuses on the legal and trade dynamics, focusing on India's involvement in the global trade market. This paper draws data and policy insights from the Coffee Board of India, DGCI&S (Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics), APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products, Exports and Development Authority), and international trade reports. India's outdated legal framework, most notably the Coffee Act of 1942, fails to address modern trade requirements, including traceability, climate-linked regulations, and enforcement of sustainability certifications. The lack of a coherent ESG-linked legal framework, particularly compared to global leaders such as Brazil and Vietnam, leaves Indian exporters and smallholders under-equipped to meet evolving international standards, such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and WTO-sanctioned SPS measures. Intellectual Property (IP) is an unrecognized area, especially Geographical Indications (GIs) such as Kodagu Arabica, Chikkamagalur Arabica, and Araku Valley Arabica. These GIs often offer market distinction and market branding identity, but their weak enforcement and lack of global recognition limit their potential. The paper emphasizes the IP-based branding and integrating climate-resilient trade policies. Strengthening India's IP strategy and regulatory capacity will enhance export competitiveness and legal resilience in a sustainability-driven international coffee economy.
Keywords: Indian Coffee Trade, Legal Framework, Coffee Act of 1942, Traceability and Sustainability Compliance, EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
