West Asia Crisis Disrupts Coffee Exports from Mangaluru; Freight Costs Surge

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, March 15, 2026: Coffee exports from Karnataka’s coastal hub are facing disruption due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia, with shipments to Gulf countries delayed and freight costs rising sharply.

Exporters in Mangaluru said cargo bound for Gulf destinations, usually routed through Jebel Ali Port, has been put on hold following the crisis. Freight charges for a 20-ton container to Jebel Ali Port have surged from about $578 to nearly $3,800. Shipments routed through Shuwaikh Port have also seen a steep increase, with costs rising from around $850 to $4,500.

According to exporters, the New Mangalore Port Authority handles nearly 90% of India’s coffee exports, while ports in Kochi account for about 8% and Mumbai around 2%. Exporter representatives said West Asia and neighbouring countries together account for 30–35% of India’s total coffee exports.

The region exports large volumes of Arabica coffee to Gulf markets, along with other varieties such as Robusta, instant coffee, and the specialty Monsooned Malabar coffee produced in coastal Karnataka.

Data from the Coffee Board of India shows that the United Arab Emirates remained the largest Gulf importer with 4,661 tonnes, driven by strong demand for instant coffee exceeding 2,000 tonnes. Jordan imported 3,501 tonnes, mainly Arabica, while Kuwait purchased 1,645 tonnes, largely Arabica. Saudi Arabia imported 1,328 tonnes across various varieties.

Other significant buyers included Libya, which showed stronger demand for Robusta, and Egypt, which imported both Arabica and Robusta.

Between January 1 and March 10 this year, these countries together imported 14,965 tonnes of coffee from India. The shipments included 6,633 tonnes of Arabica, 5,373 tonnes of Robusta, 2,935 tonnes of instant coffee, and 28 tonnes of roasted coffee.

Exporters said the ongoing crisis has also pushed up coffee prices in the export market.