MADIKERI: Coffee farmers in Kodagu, especially Robusta growers, are facing uncertainty as prices take a sharp dip after an earlier surge that had raised their hopes. While some had cashed in at peak rates, the majority who stockpiled their harvest now face a dilemma — to sell at current low rates or wait and hope for a rebound.
Earlier this year, a global supply crunch had pushed Robusta (EP) prices to Rs 450–500/kg, and Arabica touched Rs 600/kg. The fall in output from major producers like Vietnam and Brazil contributed to the spike, leading many Indian growers to withhold stock in anticipation of even higher rates.
But that tide has turned. Robusta is now down to around Rs 380/kg, driven by increased bean exports from countries like Indonesia, Brazil, and Uganda, which are offering cheaper alternatives in the global market.
“The small growers who sold early benefited. But around 80% of us who waited are now worried,” said Karthik Aiyappa, a grower from Kodagu. “We’re unsure if we should sell now or wait longer.”
Harish Madappa, a planter from South Kodagu, noted that due to weather setbacks, output dropped across India, further encouraging growers to hoard produce. “We thought this would trigger a price boom unseen in years. But now, prices are sliding.”
Trader Kabir believes this is a temporary phase. “Global oversupply has dented our prices, but demand is strong. The market will recover soon.”
- Siren Alert System to Tackle Human-Wildlife Conflict Trialled in Kodagu
- Relentless Rains Batter Kodagu, Power Disrupted, Tourist Access Curtailed
#CoffeePriceCrash #RobustaWoes #KodaguGrowers #IndianCoffeeCrisis