The 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) is being hosted in Bengaluru by the International Coffee Organization (ICO) in partnership with the Coffee Board of India, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Government of Karnataka. Established in 1963 under the United Nations, the ICO is the sole intergovernmental organization for coffee, uniting coffee-exporting and importing nations, representing 93% of global coffee production and 63% of consumption. The ICO’s mission is to enhance the global coffee sector, fostering its sustainable growth in a market-driven context for the benefit of all participants in the Global Coffee Value Chain. India, with 49 member countries, is a part of this organization.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- International Coffee Organization (ICO): Founded in 1963 under the United Nations, it’s the primary intergovernmental organization for coffee, uniting coffee-producing and consuming countries to promote sustainability and growth in the coffee sector.
- Coffee Arabica (Arabica) and Coffee Canephora (Robusta): These two species constitute the majority of the world’s coffee production, with Arabica known for its mild flavor and Robusta for its stronger taste and higher caffeine content.
- Climatic Conditions for Coffee Production: Coffee thrives in hot and humid climates with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C, rainfall of 150 to 250 cm, well-drained loamy soil rich in humus, iron, and calcium. It’s typically grown under shade trees, requiring dry weather during berry ripening.
- Coffee-Growing States in India: India’s coffee cultivation mainly occurs in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. Karnataka stands out as the largest producer, contributing to over 70% of the country’s total coffee output.
- Global Coffee Value Chain (G-CVC): The interconnected processes from coffee cultivation to consumption, involving various actors like farmers, processors, exporters, and retailers, all contributing to the global coffee industry’s value chain.
