Araku coffee yield nears target in ASR district, prices boost farmer morale

Visakhapatnam: Araku coffee production in the Alluri Sitarama Raju district is set to surpass the target for this season, with the yield already touching 17,100 tonnes against the target of 18,000 tonnes. The coffee season typically begins in the first week of December and concludes at the end of February. Officials estimate that production will easily cross 18,000 tonnes in the next couple of weeks. Rising demand in the international market has also influenced prices.The Central Coffee Board had earlier projected a yield of around 18,000 tonnes based on prevailing conditions. Favourable weather and other factors supported the estimate. Along with better yield, higher prices have also encouraged farmers.Coffee is cultivated across 2.51 lakh acres by 2.5 lakh farmers in Alluri Sitarama Raju district. According to Coffee Board officials, its annual market value stands at around Rs 250 crore. Currently, demand in both national and international markets is high. Farmers received Rs 450 per kg for parchment coffee this season, with the price peaking at Rs 520 per kg a few days ago before settling at Rs 485. Prices are expected to remain steady until the end of the season. Most farmers sold their produce at attractive rates.A GCC official said they expect the final yield to be around 20% higher than the target, considering current trends and favourable conditions.