Author: Qahwa World

Yemeni Coffee Steals the Show at ICBS 2026 in Malaysia

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Author: Dubai – Qahwa World | Source: Yemen Monitor

Executive Summary

  • Event: International Coffee and Beverages Exhibition 2026 (ICBS 2026)
  • Venue: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Malaysia
  • Dates: May 7 to 9, 2026
  • Yemeni participation: Dedicated pavilion featuring 7 Yemeni companies specializing in coffee production and export
  • Participating companies: Ammar Al-Omari Trading Establishment, Al-Yafiea Coffee Company, Golden Yafa Coffee, Al-Shobly Export Company, Drip Darb, Star Mocha Coffee
  • Organizers and supporters: Small and Micro Enterprise Development Agency, Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen, Islamic Development Bank
  • Support program: Market Access Promotion (MARKETS)
  • Supervising authority: Malaysian Ministry of Agriculture
  • Key activities: Live coffee brewing demonstrations, tasting sessions, distribution of cultural publications
  • Cultural publications: “Fingan Haysi” book and “Clouds Wine” trilogy
  • Media recognition: Malaysian press described the Yemeni pavilion as one of the exhibition’s highlights

Yemeni coffee drew significant attention at the International Café and Beverage Show 2026 (ICBS 2026), as visitors gathered around the Yemeni pavilion to experience live brewing sessions, coffee tastings, and conversations about one of the world’s oldest coffee origins.

Held from May 7 to 9 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), the exhibition brought together companies specializing in coffee, tea, matcha, café equipment, and beverage innovation, reflecting the continued rise of specialty coffee culture across Asia.

Among the busiest sections of the exhibition was the Yemeni pavilion, where producers and exporters introduced visitors to coffees cultivated in Yemen’s mountainous regions using traditional farming methods that have shaped the country’s coffee heritage for centuries.

Participating companies included Ammar Al-Omari Trading Foundation, Al-Yafae Coffee Company, Golden Yafea Coffee, Al-Shobli Export Company, Drip Drab, and Star Mocha Coffee. Throughout the event, exhibitors hosted cupping sessions and manual brewing demonstrations aimed at highlighting the distinct flavor profiles and historical identity of Yemeni coffee.

The participation was organized by the Small and Micro Enterprise Promotion Service (SMEPS) with support from the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen and the Islamic Development Bank through the “MARKETS” program, an initiative focused on improving access to international markets for Yemeni products.

Visitors and industry professionals showed particular interest in the connection between Yemeni coffee and the early history of global coffee trade. For many attendees, the pavilion offered more than a tasting experience — it provided a cultural introduction to coffee’s origins and the traditions that continue to shape production in Yemen today.

During his visit to the exhibition, Dr. Faisal Ali, President of the Yemenis Cultural Foundation, stressed the importance of presenting Yemeni coffee through a stronger cultural and media narrative capable of reaching modern specialty coffee audiences worldwide.

The pavilion also featured cultural publications linked to Yemen’s coffee history, including A Cup of Haysi and the Wine of the Clouds trilogy, adding a literary and historical dimension to the presentation.

Malaysian media covering the event described the Yemeni pavilion as one of the exhibition’s memorable highlights, noting the growing international interest in coffees tied to origin, heritage, and traditional agriculture.

Industry observers say the renewed attention toward Yemeni coffee reflects wider shifts in specialty coffee markets, particularly across Southeast Asia, where consumers are increasingly seeking coffees with traceable identity, regional character, and authentic production stories.

In addition to coffee showcases, ICBS 2026 featured brewing competitions, tea and matcha presentations, and live demonstrations of new beverage technologies as the region’s café and specialty beverage sectors continue to expand rapidly.

Author: Dubai – Qahwa World World | Source: Yemen Monitor

South Africa’s Rarest Coffee Thrives Along the KwaZulu-Natal Coast

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Ali Alzakary – Dubai | Source: BusinessTech

Executive Summary

  • Coffee species: Coffea racemosa – one of the rarest in the world
  • Location: KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, South Africa (Ballito and Hluhluwe)
  • Key grower: Charles Dennison, founder of Cultivar Coffee and Racemosa Coffee
  • Current cultivation: ~15,000 trees propagated over 10 years
  • Annual output (2025): ~350 kg (equal to one small café’s consumption)
  • Export markets: 15 countries (high-end specialty roasters)
  • Unique flavor: Blackcurrant, herbs, camphor, mint (some detect cannabis-like aroma)
  • Climate resilience: Survives low rainfall, drought, cold; needs no spraying or irrigation
  • Conservation status: Protected on IUCN Red Lists (like black rhino)
  • South Africa farms: Hold approximately 90% of what exists in Africa

Coffea racemosa – considered by many coffee experts as the rarest coffee species on Earth – is being cultivated along South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. The coastal town of Ballito, best known for luxury estates and rapid property growth, is now gaining international recognition for preserving and producing this exclusive coffee. This species is native to Southern Africa. It remains exceptionally scarce due to very slow growth, difficult propagation, and highly specific climate requirements.

Rediscovering a Forgotten Coffee Species

Charles Dennison, founder of Cultivar Coffee and Racemosa Coffee, began researching this species during his Master’s degree in coffee studies. While traveling across Africa, Dennison found references to an unknown coffee species. He and his family then searched for surviving plants.

“They’re super rare. They are protected on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red lists, like the black rhino.” – Charles Dennison, 702 Drive interview

After locating seedlings, the family began cultivating the plants and has since propagated around 15,000 trees over the past decade. The regions around Ballito and Hluhluwe are now considered among the primary areas where the species survives naturally and is cultivated commercially. Dennison said farms in northern KwaZulu-Natal currently account for most of the species under cultivation in Africa.

“At the moment, we have probably about 90% of what exists in Africa,” he said.

A Coffee Unlike Any Other

Production of Coffea racemosa remains extremely limited because the trees grow slowly and are difficult to reproduce.

“It’s a very slow-growing tree. It’s very hard to propagate, which is why it’s so rare in the wild,” Dennison explained.

The coffee’s flavor profile is equally unusual and completely different from traditional Arabica or Robusta coffees.

“It’s completely different to any coffee I think anybody really would have tasted,” he said.

Dennison described tasting notes that include blackcurrant, herbs, camphor, and mint, while some tasters reportedly identify aromas reminiscent of cannabis. He admitted the coffee is highly polarising among consumers.

“When people taste it, they either love it or they hate it,” he said.

Production and Export

Because of its rarity and premium pricing, most of the production is exported to specialty coffee roasters overseas. Dennison said beans from the farms were sold to high-end roasters in 15 countries last year. Production volumes remain exceptionally small. According to Dennison, total output in 2025 reached only around 350 kilograms – roughly the annual consumption of a small café.

Metric Value
Trees propagated 15,000
Total output (2025) 350 kg
Export countries 15
Percentage of Coffea racemosa in Africa (KZN farms) 90%

A Climate-Resilient Coffee for the Future

Beyond its exclusivity, researchers are increasingly interested in Coffea racemosa because of its resilience to harsh environmental conditions. Dennison explained that the species can survive with very low rainfall, withstand drought conditions, and tolerate colder temperatures better than many commercial coffee varieties.

As climate change continues to threaten coffee production globally, breeding programmes are exploring the species for its potential role in developing more resilient coffee cultivars.

“It doesn’t need to be sprayed, and it doesn’t need irrigation,” Dennison said. “So there’s good potential to earn forex income.”

For South Africa’s emerging specialty coffee sector, the rare species could represent both a conservation success story and a future opportunity for sustainable coffee farming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Coffea racemosa and why is it so rare?

Coffea racemosa is regarded by many coffee experts as the rarest coffee species in the world. It is indigenous to Southern Africa and remains exceptionally scarce due to its slow growth, difficult propagation, and highly specific climate requirements. The species is protected on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red lists, similar to the black rhino.

Where is this rare coffee being grown?

The rare coffee is being cultivated along South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, with the regions around Ballito and Hluhluwe emerging as the primary areas where the species survives naturally and is cultivated commercially. According to Charles Dennison, farms in northern KwaZulu-Natal currently account for about 90% of what exists in Africa.

What does Coffea racemosa taste like?

The flavor profile is completely different from traditional Arabica or Robusta coffees. Tasting notes include blackcurrant, herbs, camphor, and mint. Some tasters reportedly identify aromas reminiscent of cannabis. The coffee is highly polarising – when people taste it, they either love it or hate it.

How much of this coffee is produced?

Production volumes remain exceptionally small. Total output in 2025 reached only around 350 kilograms – roughly the annual consumption of a single small café. The family behind its cultivation has propagated approximately 15,000 trees over the past decade.

Why is Coffea racemosa important for climate change research?

Researchers are increasingly interested in this species because of its resilience to harsh environmental conditions. It can survive with very low rainfall, withstand drought, and tolerate colder temperatures better than many commercial coffee varieties. It doesn’t need to be sprayed or irrigated, making it a potential source for developing more resilient coffee cultivars as climate change threatens global coffee production.

Ali Alzakary – Dubai | Source: BusinessTech

Coffex Istanbul 2026: The world of coffee reunited in Istanbul

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By Serkan Oral – Qahwa World

Coffex Istanbul 2026, which runs from May 8 to 10, 2026 at the Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar International Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICEC) , transforms the coffee industry into a meeting point for professionals and enthusiasts alike with its multi‑layered structure extending from production to experience.

As Turkey’s first and only coffee fair, the organization is being held for the eighth time this year and brings together all components of the sector under one roof. Following the success of the previous edition, which hosted over 18,000 visitors and more than 100 brands, the 2026 edition is expected to be even larger.

Offering a wide range of exhibitors – from coffee bean manufacturers to roasting technologies, from professional equipment to third‑wave coffee brands – the fair serves as a versatile platform that combines trade, knowledge sharing, and hands‑on experience. The event enjoys official support from the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) and KOSGEB, and has recently added Branding Türkiye as an official media partner.

The event program remains one of the key elements supporting the fair’s dynamic structure. Tasting sessions, barista shows, and live brewing performances offer visitors the opportunity to discover coffee’s aromatic variety, while applied workshops provide a closer look at different brewing techniques.

Interviews and panels bring forward topics that shed light on the future of the industry. New‑generation food and beverage investments, changing spatial designs in the city, and entrepreneurship stories are evaluated with the participation of experts in their fields. A special talk session will be held with Dr. Ender Saraç on the relationship between coffee and health. Main themes this year include sustainability, high‑quality education, and superior production standards.

Coffex Istanbul 2026 ends tomorrow, May 10. Visitors are reminded that the event requires a ticket for entry. For full details, visit the official website: coffexistanbul.com.

Michael Trung: After 50, I Became a Beginner in Coffee

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An interview with Michael Trung,  Authorized SCA Trainer, coffee consultant, and founder of iO Coffee

Dubai – Ali Alzakary

Most coffee conversations start with a tasting note: chocolate, jasmine, dried fruit. But what if we started instead with a shipping container stuck at customs? Or a farmer watching months of work split open in a single rainstorm?

Michael Trung spent 25+ years in international logistics , moving goods, solving port crises, chasing paperwork. Then, after 50, he did something unexpected: he became a student of coffee. Today, he’s an Authorized SCA Trainer, a Specialty Coffee consultant, and the founder of iO Coffee, where he roasts in Vietnam to keep value with the people who grow the beans.

In this candid interview, Michael shares why COVID forced him to restart, what “the coffee smile” really means, and how logistics taught him to respect not just the bean, but every pair of hands that touches it.

If you care about where your coffee actually comes from not just the origin story, but the real supply chain.. read on.

  • You spent over 25 years in logistics, then suddenly moved into specialty coffee. How did that happen? And did logistics help you see coffee differently?

I come from the service industry. I spent more than 25 years in international freight forwarding—handling customs problems, shipment delays, port congestion, and phone calls at all hours just to keep cargo moving. That was my life for a long time.

Then COVID came and everything slowed down. For the first time in many years, I had time to sit quietly and think. I realized I knew how to move coffee around the world, but I knew nothing about the people growing it. I didn’t know the farming, the soil, or the hard work that happens before a bean even reaches a warehouse or café.

This became my startup life after 50. At an age when many people think about slowing down, I became a beginner again. Coming from logistics, I did not enter coffee as an expert, I entered as a student. In logistics, you learn to respect the journey from point A to point B. In coffee, I learned to respect the people standing at the beginning of that journey. Honestly, coffee taught me one thing: the more I know, the more I know I don’t know.

  • You founded iO Coffee after a long logistics career. How do you use that experience to improve the coffee chain? Have you changed how coffee is shipped because of the mistakes you saw?

Yes, very much. In logistics, one small mistake early on becomes a giant problem later. I’ve lived through the real-world headaches: the “HS code trap” at customs, missing certificates, or your cargo getting “rolled” at the port because of congestion. Coffee is very sensitive to all of this. If it sits in a hot container during a port delay or near something smelly because of a bad equipment choice, the flavor is gone.

Because of my background, I naturally pay attention to airflow, moisture control, packaging, and container cleanliness to protect the bean from farm to cup. But the biggest thing was seeing how little value stays with the farmers. That is why we roast in Vietnam at iO Coffee. I believe the origin should keep more of the reward, not just export the raw material.

For me, sustainability isn’t just a marketing word; it’s about protecting the hard work behind the coffee. That is why we always say: ‘Respect the Bean. Respect the hands.’

  • What pushed you to become an SCA Authorized Trainer and start “Michael Barista” on YouTube?

I used to think coffee was simple. But once you go deep, you see it’s a whole university inside a small bean—chemistry, farming, roasting, and sensory science all connected. I didn’t want to just be a guy with an opinion; I wanted to learn the professional international standards. That led me to become an SCA Authorized Trainer.

YouTube happened naturally. I started ‘Michael Barista’ to document my journey honestly, including my mistakes. I’m not a professor. I’m just an outsider sharing what I discover so that the younger generation feels coffee is something they can approach. I’ve also learned that today, good coffee alone is not enough—you need storytelling and a real connection with people.

  • Uring your many trips to coffee farms, what are three things you never expected to see?

The Sacrifice: I never expected the sheer level of labor. Seeing farmers picking cherries in the heat—that’s a man’s life, not just a product.

The Fragility (The ‘Coffee Smile’): In logistics, timing is important. In coffee, it’s everything. I learned a sad story on the farms: if it rains unexpectedly during harvest, the ripe cherries burst open. We call it the ‘coffee smile,’ but when the coffee smiles, the farmer cries. In just a few hours of rain, months of hard work are destroyed. It made me realize how sensitive this journey really is.

The Hope: I see younger farmers returning to the farms with new ideas while still respecting the older generation. They are bringing science and sustainability to the dirt, and that gives me hope for the future of Vietnamese coffee.

  • Vietnam is a top producer of Robusta. How do we move toward “value” instead of only “volume”?

For many years, Vietnam was known mostly for volume. But now I see more people focusing on quality, transparency, and Fine Robusta. People around the world now want more than just flavor notes; they want to know who produced the coffee and how it was handled.

I’m still learning how to balance my operational ‘logistics’ brain with the storytelling side. In logistics, we just moved cargo. In coffee, we have to share the heart behind the work. I don’t think we need too much noise. Good coffee speaks slowly. The best we can do is keep improving—little by little, season by season, cup by cup.


Michael Trung is an Authorized SCA Trainer and founder of iO Coffee in Vietnam. Find his educational content on YouTube as “Michael Barista.”

Le Quang Cuong (Nicky) of Vietnam Wins 2026 World Cup Tasters Championship

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By Ali Al Zakary – Dubai | Source: World Coffee Championships Official Website | May 10, 2026 | 2 min read

Le Quang Cuong (Nicky) of Vietnam Wins 2026 World Cup Tasters Championship

Final rankings: Vietnam first, Switzerland second, United States third, Japan fourth

The World Coffee Championships have announced Le Quang Cuong (known as Nicky), representing Vietnam, as the 2026 World Cup Tasters Champion, following two days of relentless focus, split-second decisions, and world-class sensory skill.

Catherine Queiroz of Switzerland secured second place, Mehmet Sogan of the United States finished third, and Mizuki Tagami of Japan placed fourth.

The championship praised all competitors who took the stage, stating that the level of precision, composure, and passion on display was remarkable, and that they have raised the bar for the entire community.

The championship extended its thanks to its sponsors: Title Sponsor Porland, Qualified Water Sponsor Bluewater Globe, as well as Cosori, Kranti Coffee, Option O Coffee, Cold Perk, Nobletree Irhea, and Femobook Grinder.

Final Rankings – 2026 World Cup Tasters Championship

Rank Name Country
1 Le Quang Cuong (Nicky) Vietnam
2 Catherine Queiroz Switzerland
3 Mehmet Sogan United States
4 Mizuki Tagami Japan

Sponsors

  • Title Sponsor: Porland
  • Qualified Water Sponsor: Bluewater Globe
  • Cosori
  • Kranti Coffee
  • Option O Coffee
  • Cold Perk
  • Nobletree Irhea
  • Femobook Grinder

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the 2026 World Cup Tasters Championship?
A: Le Quang Cuong (Nicky) representing Vietnam.

Q: What were the final rankings?
A: Vietnam first, Switzerland second, United States third, Japan fourth.

Q: How long did the competition last?
A: Two days.

Q: Who are the main sponsors?
A: Porland (Title Sponsor) and Bluewater Globe (Qualified Water Sponsor).

✍️ About the author: Ali Al Zakary – Journalist specializing in World Coffee Championships coverage and industry news.

Source: World Coffee Championships Official Website, May 2026.

2026 World Cup Tasters Championship Announces Finalists

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By Ali AlZakary – Dubai | Source: World Coffee Championships Official Website | May 9, 2026 | 2 min read

2026 World Cup Tasters Championship Announces Finalists in Bangkok

Four finalists from Japan, Switzerland, United States, and Vietnam to compete for the title

The World Coffee Championships have announced the finalists for the 2026 World Cup Tasters Championship, taking place at the World of Coffee exhibition in Bangkok.

The four finalists are: Mizuki Tagami representing Japan, Catherine Queiroz representing Switzerland, Mehmet Sogan representing the United States, and Le Quang Cuong (known as Nicky) representing Vietnam.

The lineup follows two days of fierce competition, during which contestants demonstrated exceptional skill, focus, and resilience.

The final round will be held tomorrow at 12:30 PM Bangkok time. It can be watched in person at the exhibition or via livestream.

The championship extends its sincere thanks to all competitors for their passion and dedication, as well as to its title sponsor, Porland.

Finalists

Name Country
Mizuki Tagami Japan
Catherine Queiroz Switzerland
Mehmet Sogan United States
Le Quang Cuong (Nicky) Vietnam

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many finalists qualified for the final round?
A: Four finalists.

Q: Which countries are represented in the finals?
A: Japan, Switzerland, United States, and Vietnam.

Q: Where will the finals take place?
A: At World of Coffee Bangkok.

Q: When is the final round?
A: At 12:30 PM Bangkok time.

Q: Who is the title sponsor?
A: Porland.

✍️ About the author: Ali AlZakary – Journalist specializing in World Coffee Championships coverage and industry news.

Source: World Coffee Championships Official Website, May 2026.

US Imports of Soluble Coffee from Russia More Than Tripled in Q1 202

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By Ali Al Zakary – Moscow & Dubai | May 9, 2026 | 4 min read

Imports from Russia reached $641,900 in first quarter, while chicory purchases fell 15%

📋 Executive Summary – Key Data from US Statistics Service

  • 🇺🇸 Soluble coffee imports from Russia (Q1 2026): $641,900 (3.5x higher than Q1 2025)
  • 📉 Soluble coffee imports (March 2026 only): $191,400 (25% drop from February 2026)
  • 🇺🇸 Roasted chicory imports from Russia (Q1 2026): $13,800 (15% decrease year-over-year)
  • 📈 Roasted chicory imports (March 2026 only): $3,400 (41% increase month-over-month, 20% increase year-over-year)

1. Soluble Coffee Imports from Russia Surge

The United States, in the first quarter of 2026, more than tripled its imports of soluble coffee from the Russian Federation, according to a RIA Novosti report citing data from the US statistical service (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Detailed breakdown:

  • During the first three months of 2026, the US imported soluble coffee from Russia worth $641,900.
  • This is 3.5 times higher than the same period in 2025 (Q1 2025).
  • However, in March 2026 alone, shipment volumes fell by nearly a quarter — to $191,400.

2. Chicory Imports from Russia Decline

At the same time, the United States reduced its purchases of roasted chicory from Russia — an alternative to coffee — during the first quarter of 2026.

Detailed breakdown:

  • For Q1 2026, chicory imports from Russia totaled $13,800.
  • This represents a 15% decrease compared to Q1 2025.
  • However, in March 2026, chicory purchases saw a 41% increase compared to February 2026, and a 20% increase compared to March 2025 — reaching $3,400.

3. Largest Suppliers to the US Market

Soluble Coffee:

The largest suppliers of soluble coffee to the United States were:

  • 🇲🇽 Mexico
  • 🇨🇴 Colombia
  • 🇧🇷 Brazil

Chicory:

The largest suppliers of chicory to the United States were:

  • 🇫🇷 France
  • 🇮🇳 India
  • 🇵🇱 Poland

4. Summary Table: US Imports from Russia, Q1 2026

Product Q1 2025 (estimated) Q1 2026 YoY Change March 2026 MoM Change
Soluble Coffee ~$183,400 $641,900 ▲ 250% $191,400 ▼ 25%
Roasted Chicory ~$16,200 $13,800 ▼ 15% $3,400 ▲ 41%

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where does this data come from?
A: The data was obtained by the RIA Novosti news agency from the US statistical service (Bureau of Labor Statistics) for the first quarter of 2026.

Q: How significant is the growth in soluble coffee imports from Russia?
A: Imports grew 3.5 times year-over-year — from approximately $183,400 in Q1 2025 to $642,000 in Q1 2026.

Q: What happened to chicory imports?
A: Quarterly chicory imports decreased by 15% compared to last year, but March saw a 41% month-over-month increase and a 20% year-over-year increase.

Q: Which countries are the largest suppliers of these products to the US?
A: For soluble coffee — Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil. For chicory — France, India, and Poland.

📌 Disclaimer

This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute individual investment advice.

✍️ About the author: Ali Al Zakary – Journalist based in Moscow and Dubai, specializing in foreign trade statistics analysis and economic relations between Russia and the Americas. Has been tracking US Bureau of Labor Statistics data since 2020.

Source: RIA Novosti, citing US statistical service (Bureau of Labor Statistics) data, May 2026.

European Commission Simplifies Deforestation Regulation.. What’s New?

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By Ali Al Zakary – Dubai | May 8, 2026 | 9 min read

European Commission Simplifies Deforestation Regulation (EUDR 2023/1115): Soluble Coffee In, Leather Out, US Demands Rejected

📋 Executive Summary – What’s New in the Simplification?

  • ✅ Micro & small operators (under 10 employees or €2M turnover): exempt from geolocation coordinates (postal address accepted).
  • ✅ Compliance costs reduced by 75% annually.
  • ✅ Soluble coffee (HS 2101 11 00) added to the product scope.
  • ❌ Leather (HS 4101, 4104, 4107) temporarily excluded (subject to review).
  • ❌ US demand rejected: geolocation still mandatory for low-risk countries (non-small operators).
  • 📅 Final deadline unchanged: December 30, 2026.
  • 🇺🇸 US exports at risk: estimated $9 billion annually.

Background and Legal Context

Before diving into the details, it is essential to recall that the European Union Deforestation Regulation (Regulation 2023/1115) was amended in December 2025, following requests from member states and the private sector, after it became clear that the original text was so burdensome as to disrupt supply chains. The amendments mandated the Commission to prepare a “simplification review report” to ensure ease of application before the final deadline, which remains fixed at December 30, 2026. This report is what we discuss today.

The Simplification Package – Four Key Pillars

The Commission did not issue a single report but rather an integrated package of four interconnected elements:

  • Formal Report to the European Parliament and Council: Describes all measures implemented since June 2023 and estimates a reduction in annual compliance costs for companies by 75%.
  • Updated Guidance Document (third edition): Provides practically binding clarifications on the definition of “agricultural use” and the role of certification schemes in risk assessment.
  • Revised Frequently Asked Questions (fifth iteration): Addresses marginal cases such as e-commerce, micro and small primary operators, and alternative geolocation methods.
  • Draft Delegated Act amending the product scope: Proposes the addition of 17 codes, deletion of 3 codes, and replacement of 1 code.

Radical Change in Product Scope – Soluble Coffee In, Leather Out

This was arguably the most anticipated item. The Commission has developed a hybrid methodology to evaluate each product individually, combining quantitative and qualitative assessments.

Soluble coffee (HS 2101 11 00): The report states that its exclusion had created a “fragmented approach” in the coffee sector, whereby an illegal producer could convert beans into soluble coffee to evade scrutiny. This decision now subjects all forms of coffee (beans, roasted, soluble) to the same standards.

Leather (HS 4101, 4104, 4107): This exclusion surprised the global leather industry. The report gives four reasons: differentiation of the leather value chain from meat value chains, asymmetries in trade flows, relatively low economic value of hides compared to meat, and the risk of creating an unbalanced approach because downstream leather goods remain outside the scope. Warning: This exclusion may be reconsidered if evidence of circumvention emerges.

Summary of HS Code Changes

Change Type Number of Codes Examples
✅ Added 17 2101 11 00 (soluble coffee), 0206 21 00 (frozen cattle tongue)
❌ Excluded 3 4101 (raw hides), 4104 (tanned leather), 4107 (finished leather)
🔄 Replaced 1 Retreaded tyres replaced with new rubber treads

New Information System – Grouping Feature and Contingency Plan

  • Simplified declaration form for micro and small operators.
  • Updated APIs for large companies.
  • Detailed contingency plan for system unavailability.
  • Voluntary grouping feature: allows companies to group several due diligence statements into one file.

Operator Categorisation – Three Tiers, Different Obligations

Tier Description Key Obligations
Upstream operators Producers, large exporters Full due diligence, geolocation coordinates, statement per shipment
Micro & small operators Fewer than 10 employees or under €2M turnover One-time simplified declaration, postal address instead of coordinates
Downstream operators & traders Distributors, non-SME retailers Keep partner records, verify only if substantiated concerns exist

Low-Risk Countries – Geolocation Not Waived

This is the provision that caused US frustration. Operators sourcing exclusively from “low-risk” countries benefit from partial simplification under Article 13 of the regulation:

  • ✅ Relieved of risk assessment (Article 10) and risk mitigation (Article 11).
  • ❌ Not relieved of providing geolocation coordinates (unless they are micro/small operators).

Implication for the United States: Even if classified as “low risk” (as recognised by the August 2025 US-EU Framework Agreement), non-small US exporters must still provide geolocation coordinates. Washington has protested this as “burdensome and disproportionate.”

Global Law Repository and Proportionate Evidence

The Commission committed to establishing a central repository of relevant legislation for each producing country, to be ready by December 2026. The repository will cover land use rights, environmental protection, forest-related rules, indigenous peoples’ rights, labour rights, tax, anti-corruption, trade and customs regulations.

Proportionality principle: High-risk supply chains require in-depth, plot-by-plot evidence collection. Areas posing negligible risk (e.g., US, Western Europe) should not be required to systematically collect comprehensive legal documentation.

US Reaction – $9 Billion in Exports at Risk

Washington points out that 36% of US land area (331 million hectares) is forested, and forest carbon stocks increased by 3.6% since 2010. Despite this, US sources estimate that full application of the regulation could negatively affect US agricultural and forestry exports worth up to nine billion dollars annually, including beef, coffee (all forms), cocoa, soybeans, wood, rubber, and derived products.

The August 2025 US-EU Framework Agreement recognised that US production poses negligible risk to global deforestation. However, the May 4, 2026 simplification package contained no response to the core US demand: exempting low-risk countries from geolocation requirements.

Conclusion

In the final analysis, the European simplification package brought:

  • ✅ Good news for micro and small operators (75% cost reduction, postal address option).
  • ❌ Bad news for the global leather industry (temporary exclusion, subject to review).
  • ⚡ Surprise for soluble coffee sector (full inclusion after having been previously excluded).
  • 🚫 No news for exporters from low-risk countries (geolocation mandate remains).

The file remains open for further negotiations before the December 30, 2026 deadline. Will Washington accept this “European disregard” or resort to countermeasures? Only the coming days will tell.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Has the deforestation regulation been completely cancelled?
A: No. It has been simplified to reduce burdens on small companies. The final deadline remains December 30, 2026.

Q: How do small companies benefit?
A: Companies with fewer than 10 employees or annual turnover below €2 million submit a one-time simplified declaration and may use a postal address instead of geolocation coordinates.

Q: Is soluble coffee now covered by the regulation?
A: Yes. HS code 2101 11 00 (soluble coffee) has been added to close a loophole that allowed circumvention.

Q: Why was leather excluded?
A: Due to the differentiation of the leather value chain from meat, asymmetrical trade flows, low economic value of hides relative to meat, and risk of imbalance. However, the exclusion is subject to review if circumvention evidence emerges.

Q: Did the simplification satisfy US demands?
A: No. The core US demand — exempting low-risk countries from geolocation requirements — was rejected. US exporters (non-small) still must provide coordinates.

Q: What is the final compliance deadline?
A: December 30, 2026. The simplification changed procedures, not the deadline.

✍️ About the author: Ali Al Zakary – Journalist based in Dubai, specialised in European Union affairs and international environmental legislation. He has been covering the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) since 2023 and has published over 30 reports and analyses on its developments and impact on Arab and global markets.

Sources: European Commission package documents (May 4, 2026), August 2025 US-EU Framework Agreement, US Department of Agriculture forest data (2025).

Drinkit and Victoria Arduino to Host Beverage Innovation Workshop in Dubai

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai — Qahwa World

DrinkIt, the digital coffee shop chain, has announced a partnership with Victoria Arduino to host a professional workshop in Dubai on May 20, 2026, focused on beverage innovation, product development, and the commercial strategy behind bestselling drinks.

The three-hour workshop will take place at the Victoria Arduino headquarters in Dubai and is designed for professionals across the food and beverage industry seeking practical insight into how successful beverage concepts are developed and launched within real operating businesses.

Drawing on its experience operating 10 digital coffee shops across Dubai, DrinkIt’s R&D team will share the framework the company uses to evaluate new drink ideas, balancing taste, operational efficiency, pricing, scalability, and profitability before products are introduced to the menu.

According to the organizers, the workshop will focus on the idea that successful beverages are not built on recipes alone, but through product thinking that integrates customer experience, cost management, workflow efficiency, and operational consistency.

Key topics will include beverage development for real-world café operations, pricing strategy, cost of goods sold (COGS), unit economics, and the challenges of scaling beverage programs while maintaining quality and speed of service.

Participants will also take part in hands-on exercises designed to simulate the beverage development process, from concept creation and evaluation to launch decision-making.

The workshop is aimed at head baristas, café owners, F&B managers, product developers, and entrepreneurs involved in beverage innovation and café concepts.

The event will be held on May 20, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Victoria Arduino HQ in Dubai. Organizers noted that seats are limited and advance registration is required.

Registration is available here: Workshop Registration

Arabica Coffee Prices Drop on Outlook for Large Brazilian Harvest

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Dubai – Qahwa Word

Arabica coffee futures fell to a two-week low on Thursday, weighed down by growing expectations of a bumper crop in Brazil. These developments have had a significant impact on arabica coffee prices, especially given Brazil’s bumper crop forecasts. Meanwhile, robusta prices edged higher. In fact, arabica coffee prices may fluctuate in response to Brazil bumper crop news.

July arabica coffee (KCN26) settled down 10.60 points, or 3.73%, while July ICE robusta coffee (RMN26) gained 19 points (+0.56%).

Brazilian Production Forecasts Weigh on Prices
Several recent projections point to a significantly larger Brazilian coffee harvest in 2026/27, putting pressure on arabica markets. Notably, arabica coffee prices are closely tied to Brazil bumper crop expectations, making these forecasts crucial for analysts.

  • The Coffee Trading Academy estimated last Thursday that Brazil’s 2026/27 crop could rise 12% from the previous year to 71.4 million bags. Moreover, fluctuations in arabica coffee prices strongly reflect Brazil’s bumper crop predictions.

  • On March 19, Marex Group Plc projected a record 75.9 million bags, slightly above Sucafina’s forecast of 75.4 million bags (a 15.5% year‑on‑year increase).

  • StoneX raised its estimate for Brazil’s 2026/27 production to a record 75.3 million bags on March 12, up from a November forecast of 70.7 million bags. This kind of Brazil bumper crop forecast is a key driver for arabica coffee prices.

StoneX also predicted that the global coffee surplus in 2026 would grow to 10 million bags, up from 1.8 million bags in 2025 – the largest surplus in six years. As a result, arabica coffee prices, Brazil, and bumper crop numbers remain intertwined topics for market participants.

Vietnam’s Strong Exports Pressure Robusta
Robusta prices face headwinds from surging Vietnamese shipments. Vietnam’s National Statistics Office reported on Saturday that the country’s coffee exports from January to April 2026 rose 15.8% year‑on‑year to 810,000 metric tons. For the full year 2025, Vietnamese exports jumped 17.5% to 1.58 million metric tons. Additionally, Vietnam’s 2025/26 coffee production is expected to climb 6% year‑on‑year to a four‑year high of 1.76 million metric tons (29.4 million bags).

Strait of Hormuz Closure Creates Supply Concerns
The ongoing shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global coffee supply chains, supporting prices broadly. Higher shipping rates, insurance premiums, and increased costs for fertilizer and fuel have tightened available supplies, raising expenses for coffee importers and roasters. All these factors can indirectly affect arabica coffee prices, especially if Brazil expects another bumper crop.

Tight Inventories and Lower Brazilian Exports Provide Support
Signs of limited immediate supplies are also underpinning the market:

  • ICE arabica coffee inventories dropped to a 2.5‑month low of 483,292 bags on Thursday. This reduction coincides with a growing focus on Brazil bumper crop forecasts and arabica coffee prices.

  • ICE robusta inventories hit a 16.25‑month low of 3,755 lots last Tuesday.

Brazil’s export figures have also trended lower. On April 14, Cecafe reported that Brazil’s green coffee exports in March fell 10% year‑on‑year to 2.65 million bags. Earlier, on April 7, the country’s Trade Ministry noted that total March coffee exports declined 31% year‑on‑year to 151,000 metric tons. Therefore, arabica coffee prices in Brazil remain sensitive to both export volumes and bumper crop projections. It’s worth noting that Brazil’s bumper crop continues to make arabica coffee prices extremely volatile.

Global Export and Production Outlook
On November 7, the International Coffee Organization (ICO) said global coffee exports for the current marketing year (October to September) slipped 0.3% year‑on‑year to 138.658 million bags.

Looking further ahead, the USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) projected in its December 18 biannual report that world coffee production in 2025/26 would rise 2.0% year‑on‑year to a record 178.848 million bags. Within that total, arabica production is forecast to decline 4.7% to 95.515 million bags, while robusta production is expected to increase 10.9% to 83.333 million bags. The global market continues to monitor arabica coffee prices, Brazil, and potential bumper crop impacts for the coming years.

For Brazil, the FAS sees 2025/26 production falling 3.1% to 63 million bags, while Vietnam’s output is projected to grow 6.2% to a four‑year high of 30.8 million bags. Ending stocks for 2025/26 are forecast to decrease 5.4% to 20.148 million bags, down from 21.307 million bags in 2024/25. In summary, arabica coffee prices, Brazil, and the bumper crop outlook will remain central themes for the global coffee market throughout 2026.

Yannis Apostolopoulos: Rising Coffee Consumption Reshapes Global Market Dynamics

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Bangkok – Qahwa World

Chief Executive of the Specialty Coffee Association, Yannis Apostolopoulos, told the Bangkok Post that the global coffee market is undergoing a structural transformation, as coffee-producing countries are no longer limited to exporting but are also emerging as major consumption markets, reshaping global demand dynamics.

He noted that this shift is clearly visible in countries such as Brazil, which combines its position as one of the world’s largest coffee producers with being one of the fastest-growing consumption markets. Brazil currently ranks just after the United States in coffee consumption, with expectations that it could eventually become the world’s largest coffee-consuming nation, significantly influencing global supply and demand balance.

Apostolopoulos also highlighted the rapid growth of Thailand’s coffee market, both in terms of consumption and service quality development. He pointed to the expansion of specialty coffee shops and rising consumer awareness, alongside the emergence of local producers delivering high-quality coffee with distinctive sensory profiles. He added that Thailand’s development trajectory resembles the earlier evolution of South Korea’s coffee culture.

Regarding the concept of specialty coffee, he explained that it involves transforming coffee from a traditional commodity into a value-based product that can be measured through precise criteria. These include origin, variety, processing method, and sensory characteristics, all of which enhance transparency and increase market value.

He further noted that the sector is supported by global training programmes reaching around 80,000 participants annually, covering brewing, roasting, and sensory skills, as well as specialised programmes in sustainability, equipment maintenance, and coffee shop management. New initiatives have also been launched to support the retail sector and entrepreneurs.

Commenting on rising global coffee prices, Apostolopoulos said the increase is driven by multiple factors, including climate change, production disruptions, and imbalances between supply and demand. He stressed that current prices more accurately reflect market realities compared to previous years, particularly as past prices had fallen below production costs before climate pressures, supply chain disruptions, and the Covid-19 pandemic significantly altered the market.

The remarks come as World of Coffee Bangkok 2026 is being held at BITEC, Halls 98–99, from Thursday to Saturday, bringing together global stakeholders from across the coffee industry in a professional platform aimed at strengthening trade, partnerships, and the development of the specialty coffee sector.

European Commission Expands EUDR Scope to Include Soluble Coffee

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The European Commission has unveiled a new package of measures aimed at simplifying the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), while also expanding the regulation to include soluble coffee.

The announcement brings greater clarity to a regulation that has faced repeated delays since it was first proposed in 2021. The EUDR officially entered into force in 2023 and was initially scheduled to apply by the end of 2024. However, concerns from industries and producing countries over preparedness and compliance requirements led to multiple postponements.

The Commission now says it is focused on ensuring the regulation becomes fully operational by 30 December 2026.

As part of the latest revisions, EU officials estimate the simplification measures could lower annual compliance and administrative costs for affected companies by approximately 75 per cent compared with the original framework.

For the coffee sector, one of the most significant developments is the decision to add soluble coffee to the regulation’s scope. Industry representatives believe the move will create more consistent rules across coffee categories and strengthen fair competition within the European market.

Eileen Gordon-Laity, Secretary General of the European Coffee Federation, said the inclusion of soluble coffee would support equal treatment across the sector while reinforcing the environmental objectives of the regulation. She noted that aligned requirements are important for companies preparing for compliance ahead of the implementation deadline.

The updated package also includes changes to the EUDR digital system, with simplified paperwork requirements for smaller producers such as farmers and foresters.

Meanwhile, companies placing products on the market for the first time, including coffee roasters and major importers, will continue to face full due diligence obligations. Businesses further down the supply chain will mainly be responsible for collecting supplier reference numbers rather than independently verifying compliance.

The Commission also proposed removing leather and retreaded tyres from the regulation’s scope. Certain packaging materials, waste products, and product samples would also receive exemptions. In addition, several palm oil derivatives are expected to be added alongside soluble coffee.

Environmental groups have called on the European Union to avoid further delays in implementing the law. Anke Schulmeister-Oldenhove from WWF’s European Policy Office said the regulation must now move from discussion to action, warning that continued postponements could weaken both enforcement efforts and environmental credibility.

The draft Delegated Act is open for public feedback until 1 June 2026.