Indian Coffee Exporter of Arabica & Robusta Coffee Beans
Certified exporter of premium Indian coffee with direct sourcing from Karnataka estates. Serving global markets with FOB/CIF shipping and complete export documentation.
Leelaprasad International Pvt Ltd (Lit Coffee) is a leading Indian coffee exporter specializing in premium Arabica and Robusta coffee beans sourced directly from certified estates across Karnataka, India's premier coffee-growing region. With over two decades of experience in international coffee trade, we have built strong relationships with coffee importers, roasters, and distributors across Russia, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Our commitment to quality, transparency, and reliable delivery has made us a trusted partner for businesses seeking authentic Indian coffee. We handle everything from farm-gate procurement to final shipment, ensuring consistent quality and competitive pricing for our global clients.
Indian Coffee Origins & Sourcing
Karnataka Coffee Belt
Karnataka produces over 70% of India's coffee, with our sourcing focused on three key regions: Chikmagalur, Coorg (Kodagu), and Hassan. These high-altitude estates (900-1500m) provide ideal conditions for growing specialty-grade Arabica and premium Robusta varieties. The Western Ghats' unique terroir—consistent rainfall, moderate temperatures, and shade-grown cultivation—imparts distinctive flavor profiles that international buyers value.
We work directly with over 150 certified coffee estates, many of which are multi-generational family farms committed to sustainable practices. This direct relationship ensures traceability, quality control, and fair pricing for both farmers and importers.
Coffee Varieties We Export
- •Arabica Plantation A: Washed process, medium body, mild acidity with notes of chocolate and nuts
- •Arabica Plantation PB (Peaberry): Rare natural mutation, concentrated flavor, higher cup quality
- •Robusta Parchment AB: Bold, full-bodied, low acidity with earthy and spicy notes
- •Robusta Cherry: Naturals with berry undertones, ideal for espresso blends
- •Monsooned Malabar: Unique wind-exposed beans with low acidity and heavy body
Our Coffee Export Process
1. Inquiry & Quotation
Contact us with your requirements including coffee variety, grade, quantity, and preferred shipping terms. We provide detailed quotations within 24 hours covering FOB or CIF pricing, specifications, and expected timelines. Our export team helps you understand moisture content, screen size, defect percentages, and other quality parameters specific to Indian coffee standards.
2. Sample Approval
Before confirming large orders, we send physical samples (typically 1-2 kg) via courier for your quality evaluation. Samples include lot numbers for traceability and technical specifications. We accommodate multiple sample rounds until you find the perfect match for your roasting profile or blending requirements. Sample costs are credited against confirmed orders.
3. Contract & Payment Terms
Once samples are approved, we formalize the agreement with detailed export contracts specifying quantity, quality parameters, pricing, delivery terms (FOB/CIF), and payment conditions. We typically work with Letter of Credit (LC) at sight, 30-60 day LC, or advance payment terms depending on buyer relationships. All contracts comply with International Coffee Organization (ICO) standards and Indian export regulations.
4. Production & Quality Control
Coffee is sourced from our partner estates, processed at certified facilities, and undergoes rigorous quality checks. We conduct moisture testing (target 11-12% for green coffee), screen size analysis, defect sorting, and cupping sessions. Third-party certification is available upon request. All coffee is graded according to Coffee Board of India standards and international buyer specifications.
5. Export Documentation
We prepare complete export documentation including Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (for FOB) or Airway Bill, Certificate of Origin, Phytosanitary Certificate, Quality Certificate, FSSAI Certificate, and any buyer-specific documents. For organic shipments, we provide Transaction Certificates. All documents are prepared in compliance with destination country customs requirements.
6. Packaging & Shipping
Coffee is packed in standard 60kg jute bags, GrainPro liners for moisture protection, or vacuum-sealed bags as per buyer preference. Containers are stuffed under supervision with proper dunnage to prevent shifting during transit. For FOB shipments, we deliver to Mumbai, Chennai, or Tuticorin ports. For CIF, we arrange ocean freight, marine insurance (110% of CIF value), and coordinate with destination clearing agents.
FOB vs CIF: Export Terms Explained
FOB (Free on Board)
Under FOB terms, our responsibility ends once coffee is loaded onto the vessel at the Indian port. The buyer arranges and pays for ocean freight, insurance, and destination port handling. This option gives buyers more control over shipping routes and costs, making it popular with experienced importers who have established logistics partnerships.
Best for: Large importers, freight forwarders, buyers with volume discounts on shipping contracts, and those importing multiple commodities who want to consolidate shipments.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)
CIF is a turnkey solution where we handle everything including ocean freight booking, marine insurance, and delivery to your destination port. You receive a single invoice covering all costs, simplifying budgeting and reducing coordination efforts. This is ideal for first-time importers or buyers who prefer working with a single point of contact.
Best for: New importers, smaller buyers, businesses without logistics departments, and those who value convenience and predictable landed costs over marginal savings.
Global Markets We Serve
Europe
Germany, Italy, France, Spain, UK, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic. European buyers value our organic certifications and prefer washed Arabica for filter coffee and espresso blends.
Russia & CIS
Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Belarus. Our Robusta varieties are particularly popular for instant coffee production and strong dark roasts preferred in this region.
Middle East
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain. High demand for medium-dark roasted Arabica and cardamom-infused blends for traditional Arabic coffee preparations.
East Asia
China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong. Growing specialty coffee markets seeking unique origins like Monsooned Malabar and estate-specific microlots.
Southeast Asia
Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand. Re-export markets and growing café chains sourcing authentic Indian coffee for product differentiation.
Americas
USA, Canada, Brazil. Specialty roasters seeking Monsooned Malabar and single-origin Indian estates for their unique flavor profiles and cultural heritage story.
Export Certifications & Documents
FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India)
Mandatory food safety certification for all food exports from India. Our FSSAI license (valid until 2027) ensures compliance with Indian food safety regulations and international hygiene standards.
ISO 22000:2018 (Food Safety Management)
International standard covering entire food chain from farm to fork. Demonstrates our commitment to systematic hazard control, traceability, and continuous improvement in food safety practices.
HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points)
Risk-based approach to food safety focusing on prevention rather than inspection. Our HACCP certification covers critical control points in processing, packaging, and storage.
Organic Certifications (NPOP, EU Organic, USDA Organic)
For our organic coffee lines, we provide India Organic (NPOP), EU Organic regulation compliance, and USDA NOP certification. Includes scope certificates and transaction certificates for each shipment.
Rainforest Alliance & UTZ
Sustainability certifications demonstrating responsible farming practices, environmental protection, and fair treatment of workers. Increasingly required by European and North American buyers.
Standard Export Documents Provided
Commercial Invoice • Packing List • Bill of Lading/Airway Bill • Certificate of Origin • Phytosanitary Certificate • Quality/Grade Certificate • Weight Certificate • Fumigation Certificate (if required) • Insurance Certificate (for CIF) • Bank documents as per LC terms
Frequently Asked Questions for Coffee Importers
What export terms do you offer for Indian coffee?
We offer both FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) terms. FOB shipping is available from major Indian ports including Mumbai, Chennai, and Tuticorin. For CIF shipments, we arrange complete door-to-door delivery including insurance coverage. Most buyers choose FOB for cost savings, while first-time importers prefer the convenience of CIF.
What certifications do you have for coffee export?
We hold FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), ISO 22000:2018, HACCP, Organic India (NPOP), EU Organic, USDA Organic, Rainforest Alliance, and UTZ certifications. All documentation is provided with each shipment for customs clearance. Certificate copies are sent via email before shipment and originals accompany the cargo.
Which countries do you export Indian coffee to?
We export to over 17 countries including Russia, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, UK, China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, USA, and Canada. We have experience with import regulations, documentation requirements, and port procedures for each market. Our shipping lines cover all major trade routes from Indian ports.
What is the minimum order quantity for export?
Our minimum order quantity is one 20ft container (approximately 18-20 tons or 300-330 bags of 60kg each). For mixed container loads with multiple coffee varieties, we can accommodate smaller quantities per variety. For example, you could order 100 bags of Arabica A, 100 bags of Robusta AB, and 100 bags of Peaberry in a single container.
How long does coffee export from India take?
Export timelines vary by destination. To Europe: 20-25 days, Middle East: 10-15 days, East Asia: 15-20 days, Russia: 25-30 days, Americas: 30-35 days. These timelines include order processing (3-5 days), documentation (2-3 days), and sea freight. Add 5-7 days for inland transportation within India and customs clearance at destination.
Can you provide samples before large orders?
Yes, we provide physical samples (1-2 kg) via international courier for quality evaluation. Samples typically arrive within 5-7 days depending on destination. We include lot numbers, technical specifications, and cupping notes. Sample costs are nominal and credited against confirmed orders. We encourage multiple sample rounds to ensure you find the perfect coffee for your requirements.
What payment terms do you accept?
We accept Letter of Credit (LC) at sight or usance (30/60/90 days), Telegraphic Transfer (TT) with 30-50% advance and balance against copy of documents, and full advance payment for first-time buyers or smaller orders. For established relationships, we offer credit terms. All payments are processed through authorized dealer banks in compliance with RBI (Reserve Bank of India) guidelines.
Do you offer private labeling or custom packaging?
Yes, we offer private labeling services for roasted coffee, filter coffee powder, and instant coffee products under your brand name. For green coffee exports, we provide standard jute bags, GrainPro liners, vacuum-sealed bags, or custom printing on bags with your brand logo. Minimum order quantities apply for custom packaging. Lead time for custom packaging is typically 2-3 weeks.
Ready to Import Premium Indian Coffee?
Get your custom export quote today. Our team responds within 24 hours with detailed pricing, specifications, and shipping options.
Contact Our Export Team
Email: export@leelaprasadcoffee.com | Phone: +91-1234567890
Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM IST | Response time: Within 24 hours