Explained | How Indian Coffee Growers Can Comply With The European Union’s Deforestation Rule

Kodagu Express Bureau
2 days ago
2 min read

Coffee has been included in European Union Deforestation Regulation, meaning every shipment to the EU must be traceable to its source.

Indian coffee growers exporting to the European Union must now share geolocation details of their plantations to comply with the EU’s new deforestation regulation — here is how to share the required data.

India exports more than 70% of its coffee, with the European Union (EU) being the biggest buyer, accounting for nearly 60% of green coffee exports. Now, a new regulation called the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) has come into force, directly impacting Indian coffee growers and exporters.

What is the EUDR?

The EUDR aims to ensure that agricultural products entering the EU are not linked to deforestation after December 31, 2020. Coffee has been included in this regulation, meaning every shipment to the EU must be traceable to its source.

Who does this affect?

Exporters sending coffee directly to the EU.

Growers selling to traders/curers/exporters who supply the EU market.

In short, even small farmers indirectly linked to exports must comply.

What information is required?

EU importers need the geolocation coordinates or polygon boundaries of plantations in GeoJSON format to confirm that the coffee is not from deforested land.

Plantations under 4 hectares – geolocation is enough.

Plantations 4 hectares or larger – polygon boundaries are mandatory.

How can farmers generate this data?

The Coffee Board of India has simplified the process through its India Coffee App:

Download and register as a grower.

Use the app to map your plantation’s geolocation or polygon.

The data will be verified by Coffee Board extension officers.

Once approved, download the information in GeoJSON format and share it with buyers.

Why use the Coffee Board app?

As a government-backed platform, the India Coffee App ensures data privacy and provides credibility to growers’ submissions, making it easier for exporters to meet EU requirements.

Where to get help?

For guidance, farmers can contact their local Coffee Board extension officer or call the Coffee Krishi Taranga helpline at 99026 73939.

This compliance step is crucial to ensure Indian coffee continues to have smooth access to its largest export market., according to officials from coffee board.

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