Author: Qahwa World

Enroll Now for the First-Ever Coffee Value Assessment Course in the Middle East

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Coffee Knowledge Hub invite Coffee professionals and enthusiasts in the Middle East ,to participate in the inaugural Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) Course for Cuppers, taking place on the 4th and 5th of March 2024. Hosted at the Victoria Arduino Warehouse in Al Qouz Industrial 3rd, Dubai, adjacent to Goldbox Roastery Dubai, the two-day course promises to be an immersive experience for coffee cuppers.

Course Overview:

The Coffee Value Assessment Course for Cuppers is designed as a comprehensive professional update for coffee cuppers seeking to enhance their skills. Focused on introducing participants to the Specialty Coffee Association’s (SCA) innovative Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) tools, the course combines hands-on activities, lectures, and discussions.

General Objective: Upon completion of the CVA Course for Cuppers, participants will proficiently use and integrate the SCA’s Coffee Value Assessment tools into their cupping practice.

Specific Objectives: After completing the course, participants will be able to:

  • Identify and use the new CVA sensory references.
  • Explain the function and background of key sensory assessment tools, such as 15-point intensity scales, CATA lists, and hedonic scales.
  • Utilize the CVA Descriptive and Affective Forms to describe and evaluate coffee.
  • Understand and apply the new CVA system, encompassing descriptive, affective, and extrinsic evaluation tools.

Who Should Attend: The course is tailored for current cuppers who use the 2004 SCA cupping protocol, including Professional cuppers, Q Arabica Graders, or former Q Arabica Graders. Individuals who employ the SCA cupping system at least once a month or have done so intensively in recent years will find value in this course.

Certification: Participants will undergo four tests, including a written exam, identification of olfactory references, descriptive assessment, and affective assessment. Successful completion of all tests will earn participants a certificate, verifying their proficiency in CVA as a professional tool.

Special Offer for ASTs: ASTs can avail a special price of €400 through Davide Cobelli.

When: March 5, 2024 – March 6, 2024 Starts at 9:00 AM (UTC +04:00 Asia/Dubai)

Where: CVAS Course Dubai at Victoria Arduino Warehouse, Al Qouz Industrial 3rd, Dubai, UAE (next to Goldbox Roastery Dubai)

Capacity: Limited to 12 attendees, with 8 spots still available.

Meet Your Trainer: Davide Cobelli, born in Verona and with a background in the food service field, will lead the course. His expertise and passion for coffee promise an enriching learning experience.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to elevate your cupping skills and be at the forefront of coffee quality assessment. Enroll now for the Coffee Value Assessment Course in Dubai!

 

Saudi Shada Mountains’ Timeless Coffee Legacy: A Fragrant Brew from 150-Year-Old Trees

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In the highlands of Al-Baha, the Shada mountains enchant with the captivating aroma of coffee wafting through the air. Nestled on Shada Al-Asfal and Shada Al-Ala, coffee shrubs yield a distinct bean that has become a highly sought-after commodity in the country.

These mountains host farms boasting over 54,000 trees, collectively producing more than 12 tons of coffee annually. In this thriving enterprise, over 280 farmers contribute to the cultivation, according to statistics from the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture branch in Baha.

As part of a mountain range surrounded by low plains and valleys, the twin peaks of Shada Al-Ala and Shada Al-Asfal stand as the highest in the Tihama plain. Reaching elevations of 2,200 meters and 1,500 meters, respectively, these mountains serve as the backdrop for the cultivation of various crops, with coffee reigning as the primary one.

The care for the coffee trees is remarkable, employing innovative methods such as collecting rainwater in hollow rocks strung together to resemble tanks, as highlighted by Ali Al-Ghamdi, the owner of a farm on Shada Al-Asfal mountain, where 700 Shada coffee trees thrive under meticulous care.

Shada coffee, priced between SR100 ($26) and SR150 per kilogram, bridges tradition and modernity, with trees that have stood for over 150 years still yielding coffee. Abdullah Al-Shadawi tends to around 300 of these ancient trees, following in the farming footsteps of his ancestors, emphasizing the significant yield due to the fertile soil.

Fahad Al-Zahrani, director of the ministry’s Baha region, underscores the government’s substantial support for farmers, distributing 80 liters of insecticides annually and implementing a reclamation project for agricultural terraces on both mountains. With 125 agricultural terrace reservoirs established, the ministry’s Coffee City project in the north of Baha covers 1.6 million square meters, aiming to create 1,000 jobs and ensure the cultivation of 300,000 coffee trees. The Shada Mountains stand not just as a geographic marvel but as a testament to a timeless coffee legacy.

 

Saudi specialty coffee company “Camel Step Co. LTD”, is expanding globally through Dubai

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As part of its global expansion plan, the Saudi “Camel Step Co. LTD”  – Верблюжий шаг – Company, a leader in the specialty coffee sector, launched its first international branch in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.

Abdul Hamid Al-Saeed, the project manager, expressed through his official account on “LinkedIn” his great pride and gratitude to the dedicated team whose unwavering commitment paved the way for this wonderful achievement.

It is noteworthy that “Camel Step Co. LTD” for Trade and Industry is one of the first specialized coffee companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and its basic building blocks were launched in 2013 under the slogan of raising the level of coffee quality in the local market in particular and the regional market in general.

At the beginning of its journey, “Camel Step Co. LTD” devoted its efforts to building the specialty coffee market by disseminating knowledge content and providing the necessary products to educate the community about specialty coffee.

The company also invested in developing national cadres as one of the pillars of the specialty coffee market by training Al-Kawadi to be familiar with the types of coffee and its sources and securing supply chains to ensure continuity and quality, keeping in mind our authentic Arab identity in cooperation, disseminating knowledge, and moving at a steady pace to transfer culture and develop the coffee trade.

The company says on its website about itself that it is taking a promising step to formulate the true concept of coffee, stressing that, based on the spirit of innovation, the company is working on many initiatives in its strategic plans to become one of the centers of expertise in the specialty coffee market locally and globally, which is a journey full of ambition and entrepreneurial spirit. . Through our journey, we also aim to search for new opportunities for improvement and growth in various fields to adapt to diverse circumstances. We are serious and committed to adhering to our principles and values to produce the finest coffee products from various types and sources.

Regarding specialty coffee, the company says: “This is always due to the quality of the coffee, from which the idea of launching “Camel Step Co. LTD” in the field of specialty coffee arose, where there is a need to provide high-quality coffee beans in the local market to meet the needs of customers. From this standpoint, we have invested in the passion we have to be a starting point and a center.” It is essential for specialty coffee in all its stages, including cultivation, harvesting, transportation, roasting, and serving.

The company clearly defines its goal and says: “At “Camel Step Co. LTD” for Trade and Industry, we aim to spread the culture of specialty coffee and raise customer satisfaction by providing the finest products to the market. Our vision: leadership in the field of specialty coffee in the region, through the serious and diligent pursuit of continuous improvement and innovation.” .

Buoyant US Branded Coffee Shop Market Surpasses 40,000 Outlets, Reaching Record $49.5 Billion

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World Coffee Portal’s comprehensive report on the US branded coffee shop market has unveiled impressive growth, showcasing the resilience of the industry. The market, valued at $49.5 billion, now boasts a record-breaking 40,062 outlets, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 104%.

Over the past 12 months, the market has experienced robust sales growth of 8%, contributing to a 4% increase in net outlet growth. Projections for the next year anticipate total sales exceeding $52.4 billion, with a further surge to $61.6 billion by 2028, driven by the thriving coffee-focused segment.

Leading the pack, Starbucks maintains its dominance with 16,144 stores, constituting 40% of the total market share. Dunkin’ follows with 9,434 stores, while Panera Bread, despite closing 22 sites, operates 2,151 stores.

Despite the overall positive trend, 19% of operators admit to struggling with the lingering effects of pandemic-related trading pressures, emphasizing the challenges still faced by some players in the market.

Industry Optimism on the Rise as Recovery Gains Momentum

The past year has seen a remarkable recovery in customer footfall, contributing to heightened optimism within the industry. A survey of industry leaders reveals that 76% report a positive sales environment in 2023, a significant jump from the 49% reported the previous year. Additionally, only 11% find trading conditions challenging, indicating a favorable business climate.

Consumers are also showing increased engagement, with 23% now visiting or ordering from coffee shops daily, up from 16% a year ago. Weekly visits have risen by 5%, reaching 69% of surveyed consumers.

Cold Coffee Emerges as Key Trend, Fueled by Younger Consumers

A notable trend in the market is the growing popularity of cold and iced coffee, particularly among younger demographics. Survey results indicate that 79% of under-35s purchase iced beverages at least once a week. Cold coffee consumption has surged by 8% in the past year, making it the second most frequently ordered type after filter coffee.

Industry leaders recognize this trend, with 50% considering cold coffee as the most important market trend, ahead of specialty coffee (32%) and drive-thru growth (29%).

Changing Dynamics: In-Store Dwell Time Increases, but Convenience Remains Paramount

While consumers are spending more time in coffee shops, the emphasis on convenience remains paramount. The proportion of customers spending less than 10 minutes in a coffee shop has decreased by 5%, and those staying for up to 30 minutes has increased by 13%. However, only 4% of consumers linger in-store for more than 30 minutes.

With 56% of consumers preferring drive-thru options, chains like Scooter’s Coffee and Dutch Bros have experienced rapid growth, opening 224 and 167 net new stores, respectively.

Continued Growth and Positive Outlook

The report concludes with optimistic projections for the industry, with 58% of industry leaders anticipating improved trading conditions in the coming year. The forecast suggests that sales momentum will continue, with a projected growth of 4.5% CAGR, reaching over $52.4 billion in the next 12 months and $61.6 billion by 2028.

Jeffrey Young, Founder and CEO of Allegra Group, commented on the findings, stating, “The rising number of stores exceeding 40,000 for the first time ever is credible evidence of a very robust market. However, challenges persist, including a tough labor market, high inflation, and squeezed consumer spending, which will require strategic navigation by industry players over the next 12-18 months.”

Fox News Unveils the 5 Most Expensive Types of Coffee in the World

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While coffee has become a daily ritual for many, there exists a unique group of individuals willing to pay exorbitant amounts for a cup of java. Fox News explores the world of coffee connoisseurs, showcasing some beans that are considered precious gems due to their uniqueness and distinctive processing methods. According to Fox News, coffee isn’t just a morning pick-me-up; it’s a sought-after luxury item cherished for its rare flavors and origins.

Fox News has estimated the cost of the world’s most expensive cup of coffee at $68, highlighting five types that stand out as the priciest:

  1. Kopi Luwak (Civet Coffee): Also known as Civet Coffee, this Indonesian gem is harvested from coffee beans ingested and excreted by civet cats. Celebrated for its unique production process, the rarity and intricate method of acquiring these beans contribute to its sky-high price tag, making it a choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and luxurious coffee experience. Prices range from $100 to $600 per pound, varying based on origin, quality, and authenticity.
  2. Black Ivory Coffee: Sourced from coffee beans passed through the digestive tract of elephants in Thailand, this specialty boasts a rare and refined flavor profile, justifying its hefty cost. The resulting coffee can be purchased online at approximately $1,900 per kilogram.
  3. Hacienda La Esmeralda: Hailing from Panama, the Hacienda La Esmeralda beans captivate coffee enthusiasts with their exquisite taste, often described as floral and fruity. Fetching premium prices at auctions, these beans elevate Panama’s coffee onto the global stage of exclusivity. On average, Saint Helena Coffee can range from $30 to $60 per pound, depending on factors like quality, roast, and packaging.
  4. Saint Helena Coffee: Traveling to the secluded island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean, the Saint Helena Coffee beans emerge as a testament to limited production and unique terroir. Their scarcity and distinct flavor command top-tier prices, attracting aficionados seeking unparalleled coffee experiences.
  5. Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee: Known for its mildness and lack of bitterness, this coffee reigns supreme in the coffee aristocracy. Cultivated in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, it has established itself as a prestigious and expensive choice among discerning coffee drinkers. Prices can vary based on factors like quality, roast, and packaging, generally ranging from $30 to $100 per pound.

These coffees, with their unique flavors, limited availability, and intricate production processes, are revered in the coffee sphere as not just beverages but as luxury items. Their extraordinary prices reflect their exclusivity, captivating the attention of enthusiasts eager to savor a truly exceptional coffee experience.

Black Sheep Coffee is expanding globally through the US and UAE markets

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UK-based specialty coffee chain, Black Sheep Coffee, is gearing up for international debuts in the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following a remarkable doubling of its annual sales in 2022. The robusta coffee specialist achieved a 99% increase in turnover, reaching £21.3 million ($27 million), as it continued to scale across the UK and prepare for global growth.

Despite the impressive sales growth, Black Sheep Coffee reported a pre-tax loss of £5.8 million ($7.3 million), attributing it to store expansion and rising costs, which surged from £7.6 million ($9.6 million) to £14.5 million ($18.3 million). The company remains resolute in its commitment to enhancing customer service, expanding the store network, and developing its franchise business, as indicated in its recent filing with Companies House.

Throughout 2022, Black Sheep Coffee opened 11 net new stores, bringing its total UK sites to 75, with an additional 25 in development. While the UK generated the majority of sales, international locations in Paris and a now-closed site in Manila contributed only a fraction to the total turnover.

With its eyes set on global expansion, Black Sheep Coffee is set to make its mark in the US and the Middle East. Plans include the launch of two stores in Dallas, Texas, and four outlets in the UAE in the coming year. A significant move in its Middle East strategy is the recently signed 30-year franchise agreement with Al Farran Investment, aiming to open 250 stores across the region within 15 years. The partnership will kick off with three outlets in Dubai and one in Abu Dhabi.

Black Sheep Coffee’s strategic move into the Middle East aligns with the region’s booming coffee market, which witnessed a 10.5% growth in outlets in 2022. The specialty coffee scene is gaining significant traction, particularly in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, making the Middle East expansion a promising venture for Black Sheep Coffee.

Despite challenges such as record inflation in the UK, high energy prices, and increased costs of coffee and milk, Black Sheep Coffee remains optimistic. The company recently posted an 89.7% first-quarter sales growth to £8.27 million ($10.4 million), emphasizing its commitment to pursuing unique opportunities and doubling down for growth on a global scale.

British Coffee Association: Shaping the Future of Coffee in the UK

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The British Coffee Association (BCA) is the representative organization for the coffee industry and the voice of UK coffee.

The BCA represents, promotes and supports all aspects of the UK coffee trade and industry. We foster a favourable environment for all aspects of the industry and its culture to thrive, both now and in the future.

Members’ views and concerns are the drivers behind the work we do. We actively encourage members to influence the direction and policy of the BCA to ensure we continue to steer government legislation and promote a balanced view of coffee amongst consumers and policy makers to secure the future of your business and our industry.

•  Members work and grow together.
• Towards achieving shared sustainability goals
• To mitigate and manage key issues
• To ensure the long-term resilience of coffee

The BCA operates at all time under the Competition Law Compliance Rules for Food and Drink Federation Members.

By joining the British Coffee Association, you will unlock the ability to network, collaborate, and meet with colleagues across the UK coffee industry.

BCA bring together companies and individuals from across the UK supply chain.

Quarterly BCA Committee Meetings

  • Network with industry colleagues through joining one of our active committees:
    • Communications Committee
    • Sustainability Committee
    • Technical and Regulatory Committee
    • Trade and Logistics Committee
    • Member Services Committee
    • Arbitrations and Contracts Committee

Social Events

  • BCA organises yearly social events to give members an opportunity to build their network, meet new contacts, and develop relationships:
    • Annual Industry Dinner – the only UK coffee industry and trade dinner held each year in November
    • Opportunities to meet and network with industry colleagues

For further details on membership, please contact: [email protected]

What BCA do?

COMMUNICATIONS, PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND LOBBYING

• BCA is involved in all forms of policy and legislation affecting the coffee industry and provides guidance to regulatory authorities
• Assuring compliance with those regulations and guiding our members
•  BCA is a trade advisor to DEFRA
• BCA actively follow future issues and put the industry strongly forward in the media via our BCA Press Office

NETWORKING AND EVENTS

• BCA provide thought leadership and education through webinars
• Provision of networking platforms through educational and social events
• Annual Industry Dinner

SPECIALIST SERVICES

• An Arbitration service with Arbitrators training courses and workshops
• BCA work closely with key global coffee organisations to ensure
connectivity across key issues and a global approach is undertaken

Exploring the Coffee Chronicles: Unveiling DRWakefield’s 2023 Coffee Market Report

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The year 2023 turned out to be full of surprises! Economic forecasts anticipated a global recession, driven by elevated interest rates and soaring levels of public and private debt in the United States and worldwide. Contrary to expectations, interest rates climbed even higher, leading to significant bull runs in major stock indexes by the year’s end. Despite a 19% drop in 2022, the S&P 500 index nearly recovered all its losses, approaching its all-time peak. Questions linger about the unresolved debt issues, but as the market heads into 2024, optimism prevails, with expectations of rate reductions in the second half of the year.

Arabica Coffee, as highlighted in the DRWakefield Annual Coffee Market Report, began 2023 at 164.65 c/lb and closed the year at 188.30 c/lb, reflecting a notable 14.4% increase. However, Robusta outshone with a remarkable 74.2% surge throughout the year. Roasters’ growing preference for Robusta, coupled with lower harvest numbers from key producers, bolstered its pricing.

Currency dynamics were dominated by central bankers’ decisions on when and how much to raise interest rates. By year-end, acronyms like FED, BOE, FMOC, and J-Pow were familiar terms in discussions. Both the Euro and Pound strengthened throughout the year, and the rate adjustments in 2024 are anticipated to have a significant impact on their future strength.

Key Moments in 2023:

January:
The CFTC’s COT report on January 17th revealed a net short position of non-commercials at 43,940 lots, the lowest since before the pandemic. The market hit its second-lowest figure for the year at 145.30 c/lb on the 11th but rebounded to finish at 177.40 c/lb by month-end.

February:
Cyber-related issues led to the absence of the COT report for most of the month. Inflation figures took center stage, with the coffee market reaching a high of 187.55 c/lb on February 22nd.

March:
The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, Silvergate, and Signature caused global financial jitters, impacting not only the US but also major European lenders like Credit Suisse.

April:
Around Easter, the coffee market surged, reaching a high of 197.90 c/lb on April 18th, driven by movements in the Brazilian Real and low crop figures from key origins.

May:
Certified Arabica stocks hit a 6-month low, reaching 598,000 bags. This, coupled with a 12% reduction in May and a 27% reduction in 2023, supported the market entering June.

June:
Central bankers’ rate pauses raised questions about the end of rate hikes. The FED held the Fed Funds Rate at 5-5.25%, indicating a pause, while Lagarde emphasized that more work was needed.

July:
Early July marked the strongest period for Pound Sterling (1.30) and the Euro (1.12). Colombian coffee differentials dipped, prompting concerns among other origins about adjusting prices or selling remaining stock.

August:
With Brazil’s harvest over 75% complete, solid volume estimates for the year, like Cooxupe’s expectation of nearly 6.5 million bags, emerged, representing a 30% increase.

September:
Weather in Brazil dominated headlines, shifting from the current harvest to rain and flower development for the 2024/5 harvest. Despite potential risks, the market fell towards the end of the month.

October:
The market hit the yearly low of 145 c/lb on October 10th but swiftly rebounded, closing the year at 188.30 c/lb.

November:
Both the Euro and Pound maintained momentum, while Moody’s downgrade of the US Credit rating weighed on the Greenback. A brief pullback preceded a December rebound, with the Euro finishing at 1.10 and the Pound at 1.27.

December:
Mercon Coffee Group, as reported in the DRWakefield DRW Annual Coffee Market Report, filed for bankruptcy, impacting Nicaragua, where it held the highest market share. Uncertainty surrounded the business’s future as discussions on the Fed’s potential rate cuts in 2024 gained traction. Cheers to what the new year may bring!

UK’s Coffee Craze Brewing Economic Success and Cultural Shifts

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In a recent report released by the British Coffee Association, staggering figures reveal the monumental impact of coffee consumption on both the nation’s economy and its cultural landscape.

Key Findings:

  1. Global Coffee Domination: Coffee has secured its place as the world’s most popular beverage, with an astonishing two billion cups consumed globally every day.
  2. UK’s Daily Brew: Within the United Kingdom, coffee culture is thriving, with an estimated 98 million cups of coffee consumed each day. This marks a significant shift in beverage preferences, reflecting the evolving tastes of the population.
  3. Economic Percolation: The coffee industry is a powerhouse in the UK, generating over 210,000 jobs. The Gross Value-Added contribution to the economy is an impressive £9.1 billion, and the total output contribution, accounting for indirect and induced multiplier impacts, reaches a staggering £17.7 billion, as of 2017.
  4. Domestic Coffee Production: Approximately 76% of the value of an average cup of coffee consumed in the UK is estimated to be produced domestically, emphasizing the growing importance of local coffee production.
  5. Instant Gratification: Instant coffee remains a staple in 80% of UK households, particularly among those aged 65 and older. This timeless classic continues to be a go-to choice for in-home consumption.
  6. Shifting Tastes: Millennials (aged 16 – 34) are driving a shift towards ground coffee and single-serve coffee pods. Accounting for 16% of all buyers, this demographic is shaping the industry’s future with a preference for convenience and quality.
  7. Café Culture Boom: The allure of café culture remains strong on the high streets, with 80% of people visiting coffee shops at least once a week. An impressive 16% of individuals make daily visits, showcasing the enduring appeal of communal coffee experiences.

As coffee continues to permeate every aspect of daily life, from economic contributions to cultural shifts, it’s clear that the UK’s love affair with this beloved beverage is not just a passing trend but a robust and integral part of the nation’s identity.

Sip, Savor, Connect: A Guide to the Leading International Coffee Events in 2024

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Coffee enthusiasts and industry professionals, mark your calendars! The global coffee scene is abuzz with a rich blend of upcoming international coffee events that promise to tantalize taste buds and ignite discussions on the latest trends and innovations in the world of coffee. Here’s your guide to the most anticipated gatherings:

  1. Specialty Coffee Expo 2024
  2. World of Coffee 2024
  3. World of Coffee 2024

These events will immerse attendees in the rich aromas and flavors of specialty coffee, offering a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and exploring the latest products and services in the industry.

But wait, there’s more! Before these global rendezvous, be sure not to miss these upcoming events:

  • Coffee Fest Orlando 2023
  • World Coffee Championships
  • World of Coffee 2024

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado, industry professional, or simply looking for an immersive and flavorful experience, these international coffee events are the perfect opportunities to savor the diversity and creativity that the global coffee community has to offer.

For detailed information on each event, including registration details and program highlights, visit the respective event websites provided. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of the caffeinated excitement that awaits in 2024!

Experience Yemeni Coffee Magic: National Auction on January 11-12, 2024 – Stay tuned

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As the highly anticipated National Yemeni Coffee Auction approaches, coffee enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for an unparalleled sensory expedition through the exquisite offerings of Yemen, the historic birthplace of coffee. The event promises to enchant the global coffee community with Yemen’s rich coffee heritage and a symphony of flavors that reflect its diverse terroirs.

Scheduled to unfold from January 11 to 12, 2024, the National Yemeni Coffee Auction will showcase a curated selection of 15 extraordinary products, each meticulously cultivated by coffee producers across various regions of Yemen. The exclusive event will be hosted on the auction website https://mocha.auction/en.

For participants in the United States, the auction kicks off on January 10 at 19:00, while in the United Kingdom, it commences on January 11 at 02:00. The strategic scheduling accommodates different time zones, ensuring global coffee aficionados can engage in this exceptional event.

Organizers extend a warm invitation to coffee lovers worldwide to embark on an unparalleled flavor journey. Beyond the opportunity to savor rare and distinctive flavors, participants play a pivotal role in directly supporting local farmers and contributing to the growth of Yemen’s coffee sector.

The National Yemeni Coffee Auction holds immense promise for producers and exporters, offering a golden opportunity to identify target markets, establish optimal prices, and gain valuable insights into international market standards. With a dedicated focus on enhancing product quality, accessing new markets, and fostering sustainable business relationships, the auction aims to elevate Yemeni coffee onto the global stage.

More than a mere trading platform, the auction represents the realization of Yemeni farmers’ dreams. For the first time, farmers have the chance to present their unique products directly to global buyers, positively impacting their social and economic conditions. The event is a catalyst for development, empowering farmers to increase productivity, attain higher income, and transform their aspirations into reality.

Furthermore, the National Yemeni Coffee Auction serves as a valuable platform for Yemeni coffee farmers and producers to reaffirm the global standing of Yemeni coffee. The event not only fosters business development but also contributes positively to the Yemeni coffee value chain and the national economy.

It is noteworthy that the inaugural national auction for Yemeni coffee took place in 2021, initiated by the Al-Mokha Foundation for the Development of Yemeni Coffee in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the Union of Coffee Producers Associations. The primary objectives include advancing the Yemeni coffee sector, marketing and promoting it at fair prices, and positioning it competitively against premium international varieties.

Korean Researchers Create the First Certified Reference Material for offee Beans

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The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Sciences (KRISS) has introduced the world’s inaugural certified reference material (CRM) for coffee beans. This groundbreaking development enables precise measurement of five nutritional components (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper) and three detrimental elements (lead, mercury, and cadmium) within the dehydrated fruit.

The Inorganic Metrology Group at KRISS initiated the project by freeze-drying a batch of raw coffee beans, then grinding and blending them to create a uniform sample, which was further sterilized through irradiation.

Adhering to domestic Korean regulations, roasted coffee, instant coffee, and other coffee products are required to have a total lead content of 2 mg/kg or less. Meanwhile, European standards stipulate that dried edible coffee beans should contain 0.05 mg/kg or less of cadmium, with lead content restricted to 1 mg/kg or less.

Utilizing isotope dilution mass spectrometry for measurement, the new CRM boasts an accuracy level more than three times superior to conventional methods employed by food testing institutions. Dr. Kyoung Seok Lee, the Director of the Division of Chemical and Biological Metrology, anticipates that the CRM could substantially elevate the quality control standards for coffee—a widely consumed and heavily imported beverage.

KRISS aims to extend its CRM development to other food items, including Korean cabbage, blueberries, and pork, contributing to the creation of healthier and safer dining options for the nation.

In South Korea, the per capita coffee consumption of the adult population is 2.7 times higher than the global average. Coffee imports (raw and roasted beans) reached a record high of 200,000 tons in 2022.