Author: Qahwa World

In May 2024, Uganda saw a significant surge in its coffee exports, marking a notable growth in both quantity and value. According to the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) report, a total of 553,529 60-kilo bags of coffee were exported, valued at $127.3 million. This represents a remarkable 22.16% increase in quantity and a substantial 73.81% rise in value compared to May 2023.

Robust Growth in Robusta Exports

Robusta coffee led the charge, with exports increasing by 44.23% in quantity and a staggering 136.28% in value year-over-year. In May 2024, Uganda exported 473,693 bags of Robusta, generating $107.92 million. The surge is attributed to the peak harvest of the main crop in the Masaka and South Western regions.

Decline in Arabica Exports

In contrast, Arabica coffee exports declined by 35.98% in quantity and 29.68% in value compared to the previous year. Uganda exported 79,836 bags of Arabica worth $19.38 million. The decrease is linked to a smaller harvest in the Elgon region.

Yearly Performance

For the twelve months ending in May 2024, Uganda exported a total of 6.02 million bags of coffee, valued at $1.07 billion. This marks a 5.17% increase in quantity and a substantial 27.85% rise in value compared to the previous year. The export performance underscores Uganda’s growing prominence in the global coffee market.

Market Prices

The average export price in May 2024 was $3.83 per kilo, up from $3.62 per kilo in April 2024 and $2.69 per kilo in May 2023. Robusta fetched an average price of $3.80 per kilo, with Organic Robusta achieving the highest price of $4.43 per kilo. Arabica averaged $4.05 per kilo, with Mt. Elgon A+ commanding the highest price at $5.27 per kilo.

Exporter Performance

The top 10 exporting companies accounted for 72% of the total coffee exports in May 2024. Ugacof (U) Ltd led the market with a 16.44% share, followed by Export Trading Company (U) Ltd with 8.68% and Ideal Quality Commodities Ltd with 8.66%. The competition among exporters remains intense, reflecting the dynamic nature of Uganda’s coffee industry.

Global Market Dynamics

Globally, coffee production for 2023/24 is forecasted to reach 171.4 million bags, up by 6.9 million bags from the previous year, driven by higher outputs in Brazil, Colombia, and Ethiopia. Global exports are expected to rise by 8.4 million bags to 119.92 million bags, primarily due to increased shipments from Brazil. Global consumption is forecasted at 169.5 million bags, with significant increases in the European Union, the United States, and Brazil. Ending inventories are projected to tighten to a 12-year low of 26.5 million bags.

Promoting Domestic Coffee Consumption

UCDA actively promoted domestic coffee consumption through various events, including the European Union day celebrations, Women’s Day celebrations in Sembabule, and the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo. These events featured demonstrations of different brewing techniques and provided over 10,000 cups of coffee for tasting, highlighting the rich diversity of Ugandan coffee.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, coffee exports for June 2024 are projected to be around 550,000 60-kilo bags. The peak harvesting season south of the equator and ongoing harvesting of the fly crop north of the equator are expected to contribute to this robust performance.

Conclusion

Uganda’s coffee export growth in May 2024 highlights the country’s strong position in the global coffee market. With significant increases in both quantity and value, Uganda continues to cement its reputation as a key player in the coffee industry. The UCDA’s efforts in promoting both domestic and international markets, along with ongoing improvements in coffee cultivation and processing, are set to further enhance Uganda’s coffee sector in the coming years.

From June 27 to 29, Victoria Arduino will make its mark at the World of Coffee (WOC) in Copenhagen as the official sponsor of the Roaster Village South, presenting the innovative E1 Prima EXP espresso machine. This renowned Italian brand, known for its exceptional espresso machines that blend striking design with top-tier performance, invites baristas, roasters, and coffee enthusiasts to stand CE-008. Here, visitors can explore the latest advancements in coffee extraction, grinding, and steam production, all wrapped in Victoria Arduino’s sleek, contemporary style.

Experience E1 Prima EXP: A Hub of Creativity

E1 Prima EXP, a 1-group espresso machine, is designed for those who cherish creativity and innovation in coffee. This machine is not just a tool but a partner for explorers of taste, allowing baristas to craft a wide range of espresso and Pure Brew recipes effortlessly. Its state-of-the-art technologies enhance every ingredient, making it a must-see at the Roaster Village South.

Introducing the E1 Prima PRO

Victoria Arduino is also unveiling the E1 Prima PRO, a professional espresso machine that encapsulates the brand’s most advanced technologies in a uniquely versatile design. The E1 Prima PRO features PBTech and VIS (Virtual Intelligent Scale), ensuring perfect balance of flavor and texture with precise, consistent dosing every time. This new model is a testament to Victoria Arduino’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of coffee technology.

Savor Unique Flavors with Pure Brew+

At stand CE-008, visitors can indulge in a sensory journey with Pure Brew+, a new technology that enhances the tasting experience of coffee, tea, botanicals, and other ingredients. Featured coffees from esteemed producers like Lost Origin, Los Pirineos, and Cafè Granja will be showcased, highlighting the potential of this innovative brewing technology.

Black Eagle Maverick: A Hub of Innovation

The Black Eagle Maverick, known for its cutting-edge espresso extraction technologies like T3 Genius and PBtech, will be a highlight at the stand. Throughout the event, roasters including Kalve, Good Life, Standout, Gemini, and La Cabra will demonstrate its capabilities, offering an immersive sensory experience that showcases the full spectrum of coffee flavors.

Eagle Tempo: Revolutionizing Steam Technology

Visitors will also experience the new Easycream technology with Eagle Tempo, designed for faster workflows and consistent drink preparation. The updated system allows baristas to set up to nine latte or plant-based drink recipes directly from the display, streamlining the process with a user-friendly push-and-pull steam lever. At WOC, Eagle Tempo will feature a diverse drink menu, including innovative options like matcha latte.

Limited Edition: Eagle One Copenhagen

Victoria Arduino will debut the Eagle One Copenhagen Special Edition, a limited run featuring sustainable, biodegradable natural fiber. This edition blends warm, natural hues with a fabric that showcases the beauty and texture of different yarns, embodying the essence of the Eagle One series.

Mythos Masterclass: A Deep Dive into Grinding Excellence

Don’t miss the Mythos Masterclass at stand CE-008, where Victoria Arduino will delve into the evolution of the Mythos grinder. Known as the official grinder of the World Barista Championship, Mythos has set new standards in grinding quality and consistency, shifting focus from speed to extraction excellence. Join the Victoria Arduino team to explore its journey and innovations.

Victoria Arduino at WOC Copenhagen promises an exciting showcase of innovation, quality, and design. Visit stand CE-008 to discover the future of coffee technology and experience firsthand the brand’s dedication to excellence.

Morning coffee is a staple for many of us, providing that much-needed energy boost to start the day. While nutritionists recommend consuming no more than one serving of coffee daily, we often exceed this limit, especially when socializing with friends and family at a café. The coffee always seems to taste better there than the one we make at home. But have you ever wondered how long it takes to make a cup of cappuccino?

According to many baristas, it takes about 3 minutes to prepare one serving of coffee with milk. So, how many cappuccinos can be made in one hour? A simple calculation suggests around 20 servings. However, this estimate is misleading. In fact, there’s a Guinness World Record for the highest number of cappuccinos made in just 60 minutes.

According to Marina Mikhalap, a reporter for “Belnovosti,” the record is held by professional barista Lisa Thomas from Australia. In April 2019, she attempted to set the record for the most cappuccinos made in one hour using a standard coffee machine, capable of making up to 4 servings at a time. In the allotted hour, Lisa managed to prepare 420 cups of coffee. To date, no other barista in the world has been able to break this record.

Additional Information

1. Lisa Thomas’ Background: Lisa Thomas is a renowned barista from Melbourne, Australia, known for her precision and speed in coffee preparation. She has participated in several barista competitions and has been recognized for her skills in latte art and espresso brewing.
2. The Record-Breaking Event: The event took place in a popular café in Melbourne, where Lisa’s attempt was witnessed by a crowd of coffee enthusiasts and official representatives from the Guinness World Records. The preparation process was meticulously documented to ensure all guidelines were met.
3. Impact on the Coffee Community: This record has inspired many baristas around the world to improve their skills and speed. It has also highlighted the importance of efficient workflow and equipment in achieving such feats.
4. Guinness World Records: The Guinness World Records organization has stringent criteria for setting and breaking records. Lisa’s achievement is listed under the category of “Most Cappuccinos Made in One Hour” and includes detailed documentation and verification by official adjudicators.

Ali Al-Suwaih, Chairman of Injaz International, a subsidiary of Injaz Global Group and Special Advisor for Trade, Investment, and Employment Abroad for the Republic of Uganda, recently signed an exclusive agreement to supply premium Ugandan coffee products to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This step was taken under the directives of the Ugandan leadership and was formalized in a ceremony attended by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni himself.

On the sidelines of the signing ceremony, President Yoweri Museveni expressed his pride and support for this agreement, emphasizing that it represents an important step towards advancing the Ugandan coffee sector and supporting local farmers. He noted that this agreement is part of the Ugandan government’s efforts to enhance its agricultural exports and open new markets for its products.

Uganda is one of the largest coffee producers in the world, with production for the 2023/2024 year estimated at approximately 6.85 million 60-kilogram bags, a 4% increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to favorable weather conditions and the maturation of coffee trees planted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ugandan coffee exports are expected to rise by 4% to 6.52 million bags, strengthening Uganda’s presence in global markets​ (Daily Coffee News by Roast Magazine)​​ (NUCAFE)​​ (USDA Foreign Agricultural Service)​.

Regarding coffee consumption in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom is one of the largest coffee consumer markets in the region, having witnessed significant growth in recent years. Coffee consumption in Saudi Arabia is estimated at around 28,000 tons annually, with an increasing number of coffee shops and a growing coffee culture among the Saudi population. This agreement comes at a time when the Saudi market is experiencing rising demand for premium coffee, providing an excellent opportunity for Ugandan coffee to expand and compete in this promising market.

It is noteworthy that this step aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and increase trade cooperation with African countries, thereby opening new horizons for partnership and cooperation in various economic fields.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of the World Health Organization (WHO), has updated its stance on coffee consumption and cancer risk. The IARC stated that there is no conclusive evidence linking coffee consumption to cancer. However, it emphasized that all “very hot” beverages, including coffee, could potentially be carcinogenic.

Previously, the IARC had classified coffee as a “possible carcinogen” under the “2B” category, similar to substances like chloroform and lead. This classification was based on earlier studies suggesting a potential link between coffee consumption and cancer. However, the IARC has revised this classification following an extensive review of over a thousand scientific studies conducted on humans and animals. The latest review found “no conclusive evidence of a carcinogenic effect” specifically related to coffee consumption.

The IARC’s updated assessment highlights that beverages consumed at temperatures of about 65 degrees Celsius (149 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher could pose a risk of esophageal cancer. This finding applies not only to coffee but also to other hot beverages such as tea and hot water. The agency’s conclusions are based on scientific evidence indicating that very hot drinks can cause thermal injury to the esophagus, potentially leading to cancer.

The IARC, based in Lyon, France, conducted its review meticulously, examining a broad range of studies to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks associated with hot beverage consumption. The updated classification reflects the current understanding of the relationship between beverage temperature and cancer risk.

The National Coffee Association in the United States welcomed the IARC’s decision to reclassify coffee, describing it as “great news for coffee drinkers.” This change is expected to reassure millions of coffee enthusiasts who can continue to enjoy their favorite beverage without undue concern about cancer risks, provided they avoid consuming it at excessively high temperatures.

This updated stance aligns with other health recommendations that advise allowing hot beverages to cool down before consumption to minimize the risk of thermal injury and potential cancer development.

In summary, while coffee itself is not considered a carcinogen, the temperature at which it is consumed plays a crucial role in its potential health risks. The WHO and IARC recommend moderation and caution when consuming very hot beverages to ensure safety and health.

An Australian company, Undercover Roasters, has revolutionized the coffee experience by producing the world’s first coffee that leaves your breath feeling fresh. This innovative beverage, named the Mint Mocha, addresses the common issue of “coffee breath.”

What is Mint Mocha?

The Mint Mocha is crafted by infusing coffee beans with spearmint-flavored chocolate pieces. These pieces are integrated into the coffee as “orbs” that melt into the beverage, ensuring that the last sip leaves a refreshing minty taste.

This unique combination not only enhances the coffee-drinking experience but also leaves the drinker with minty fresh breath​ (CookingHub)​​ (Campaign Brief)​.

The Innovation Process:

Hakan Bilal, the founder of Undercover Roasters, highlighted the extensive research and development that went into creating the Mint Mocha. The team experimented with various flavors to achieve the perfect balance, ensuring that the minty aftertaste complements their house coffee blend​ (CookingHub)​​ (7NEWS)​.

Availability:

The Mint Mocha is currently available at Undercover Roasters’ main store in Abbotsford, Melbourne, and will soon be available in other cafes across Australia.

The coffee can also be purchased online, making it accessible to a wider audience​ (7NEWS)​​ (Campaign Brief)​.

Customer Experience:

The idea behind the Mint Mocha is that by the time you finish your cup, the melted mint chocolate orb will leave your mouth with a fresh, minty flavor.

This innovative approach to coffee drinking provides a delightful surprise and a pleasant aftertaste, making it a unique addition to the coffee market​ (CookingHub)​​ (7NEWS)​.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Undercover Roasters website.

Exporters looking to enter the Mexican coffee market may find both promising opportunities and significant challenges.

High-Quality Production

35% of Mexico’s coffee production is reportedly “high-quality.”
This reputation is attracting exporters from traditional coffee-producing countries like Colombia.
Strategic Shifts and Market Potential

Over the last five years, many companies have begun exporting coffee from Mexico, seeking to capitalize on its untapped potential, diverse flavor profiles, and unique terroirs.

Mexico’s total production for 2023/2024 is forecasted to remain steady at 4.1 million 60-kg bags, with approximately 35% classified as high-quality.
Appealing Factors for Exporters

Mexico’s rich coffee heritage and favorable climate conditions offer new sourcing opportunities.
Climate change and market saturation in traditional coffee regions like Colombia, Ethiopia, and Brazil drive exporters to diversify.
Geographical proximity to the U.S. is also an attractive factor.
Market Challenges

Navigating Mexico’s coffee supply chain can be complex, with issues like fluctuating market prices, logistical challenges, limited infrastructure, varying producer payment terms, and quality control measures.
Many coffee-producing regions in Mexico have their own laws, languages, and poor infrastructure, complicating the export process.
Infrastructure and Government Support

The lack of a robust tax and banking system makes transactions difficult, and high poverty and violence rates further complicate the situation.
Government support for the coffee sector is minimal, with most producers not belonging to cooperatives and local production often small and fragmented.
Quality Control and Relationship Building

Exporters must establish transparent communication channels, foster long-term relationships with producers, and invest in quality assurance to succeed in the Mexican market.
Strategic Considerations

Exporters transitioning from one origin to another must adapt to new supply chain dynamics, understand local regulations, and build relationships with unfamiliar producers.
While transitioning offers opportunities for diversification and market expansion, it also presents challenges that require careful consideration and adaptation to local contexts.
By understanding the complexities of the Mexican coffee market and building strong local partnerships, exporters can leverage the unique attributes of this emerging coffee origin and enhance their global coffee offerings.

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the International Coffee Organization (ICO) have announced new initiatives to strengthen climate adaptation and sustainability in the Coffee Global Value Chain (C-GVC). These efforts are supported by the Italian Presidency of the G7 and various public and private partners.

UNIDO and ICO’s joint report, “Sustainability & Resilience of the Coffee Global Value Chain: Towards a Global Investment Vehicle,” analyzes the needs and options for creating a global funding mechanism to support stakeholders, especially farmers, in addressing climate change and other structural challenges. The report emphasizes the importance of mobilizing both public and private funding through grants and investments, and proposes the creation of a blended financial vehicle that includes grants and loans.

ICO Executive Director Vanúsia Nogueira highlighted the report’s role in providing essential insights for mobilizing funding across the C-GVC, while UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller emphasized the report’s solutions for supporting smallholder coffee farmers facing volatile market conditions and climate impacts.

Coffee is a crucial global cash crop and a driver of sustainable development. The report calls for robust partnerships among governments, private sector stakeholders, international organizations, and civil society to enhance coordination and support sustainable practices in the coffee sector.

Funded by the Italian Development Cooperation and the ICO’s Coffee Public-Private Task Force (CPPTF), the report aims to foster further cooperation with G7 members and partners such as the World Bank Group, UNDP, FAO, and ITC to ensure a sustainable and resilient future for coffee-producing countries.

About the International Coffee Organization (ICO): Established in 1962 under the United Nations, ICO is the only intergovernmental organization for coffee, uniting exporting and importing governments to strengthen and promote the global coffee sector.

About the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO): A UN specialized agency focused on promoting sustainable economic and industrial development, UNIDO supports sustainable food systems, renewable energy, and fair supply chains.

For more information, visit ICO and UNIDO.