Category: News

In a landmark move for global coffee diplomacy, Mexico has officially joined the International Coffee Agreement 2022 (ICA2022). The Mexican Ambassador to the United Kingdom, H.E. Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco, finalized the nation’s commitment by depositing the instrument of ratification at the headquarters of the International Coffee Organization (ICO) in London.

This significant step not only marks Mexico as the newest member of ICA2022 but also reaffirms its dedication to fostering international collaboration within the coffee industry. The agreement, aimed at strengthening the global coffee sector, supports sustainable growth and a market-based approach to benefit all stakeholders involved, from producers to exporters.

Mexico’s entry into the agreement is poised to bring substantial benefits to its coffee industry, which is among the top ten largest globally. By joining ICA2022, Mexico aims to leverage new opportunities for its coffee producers and exporters, enhancing their access to global markets and promoting sustainable production practices.

The ratification by Ambassador Gonzalez-Blanco is a pivotal moment in Mexico’s engagement with international coffee policies and trade regulations. It is anticipated that this new membership will not only provide Mexico with a stronger voice in global coffee affairs but also address ongoing challenges such as market volatility, climate change, and sustainability issues in the sector.

 

The International Coffee Organization (ICO) has reported a significant surge in global coffee prices, reaching the highest levels seen in 13 years. The ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) averaged 226.83 US cents per pound in June 2024, marking an 8.9% increase from May 2024. This notable rise in prices is driven by various factors affecting coffee production and supply across key regions.

The ICO’s latest Coffee Market Report highlights that the I-CIP posted a median value of 225.70 US cents per pound, with fluctuations between 221.71 and 235.69 US cents per pound. This surge in prices is 32.5% higher than the same period in June 2023. The stability of prices around the 220 US cents per pound mark in June 2024 is attributed to adjustments made in the previous month and the anticipation of poor harvests in major coffee-producing countries.

Colombian Milds increased by 7.2% to 250.39 US cents per pound, while Other Milds rose by 7.0% to 248.39 US cents per pound. The Brazilian Naturals group saw a significant increase of 9.3%, reaching 229.25 US cents per pound. Robustas experienced the strongest growth among coffee groups, rising by 10.5% to 204.30 US cents per pound.

The report shows a 12.0% increase in global green bean exports in May 2024, totaling 10.76 million bags, compared to 9.61 million bags in the same month of the previous year. Notably, exports of Brazilian Naturals surged by 56.1% to 3.8 million bags in May 2024 from 2.43 million bags in May 2023. Conversely, exports of Robustas declined by 13.4% to 3.39 million bags in May 2024 from 3.73 million bags in May 2023.

Exports from Asia & Oceania decreased by 39.3% to 2.42 million bags in May 2024, with Vietnam’s exports significantly declining due to low stock levels. Meanwhile, exports from Africa increased by 44.8% to 1.74 million bags in May 2024, driven by substantial growth in Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, and Uganda. South America saw a robust increase of 59.6% in exports, totaling 5.54 million bags in May 2024. Brazil’s exports, in particular, increased by 79.1% to 4.42 million bags, marking the largest monthly exports on record.

The significant increase in coffee prices will have profound implications for coffee producers, traders, and consumers worldwide. Producers may benefit from higher prices, but those with lower yields due to poor harvests could face challenges. Traders will need to navigate the volatile market, and consumers may see higher prices for their favorite coffee products.

The surge in coffee prices and the dynamic shifts in regional exports reflect the complex interplay of supply challenges and market adjustments. As the coffee industry navigates these fluctuations, the ICO’s report underscores the importance of monitoring production trends and market responses to ensure stability and sustainability in the global coffee market.

 

RAW Coffee Company, a trailblazer in the UAE’s specialty coffee scene, is marking its 18th anniversary with a heartfelt thank you to its customers, farmers, and industry colleagues for their unwavering support. To celebrate this significant milestone, RAW is offering free delivery services across the UAE and GCC from July 5th to September 30th.

Since its inception, RAW has been at the forefront of the specialty coffee movement in the Middle East. Operated daily by founders Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood, both of whom were the first in the MENA region to earn the International Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Diploma, RAW has grown into a market leader known for its commitment to quality and sustainability.

Special Anniversary Offer Details:

• Within the UAE: Customers can enjoy free delivery on orders with a minimum value of AED 115. This offer is valid for online purchases only.
• To the GCC: Free delivery is available on orders starting from AED 895, applicable solely to coffee beans. For orders exceeding AED 1000, an additional AED 130 fee is charged to cover the customs export declaration certificate, as mandated by the UAE Federal Tax Authority.

Customers are advised to provide complete address details and a reliable contact number at checkout to avoid delivery delays. Please note that all international customs clearances, import duties, and related fees are the responsibility of the customer. RAW Coffee Company does not handle customs clearances for held orders.

A Look at RAW’s Journey:

Operating from a custom-built 13,500 sqft working roastery café in Al Quoz, RAW not only focuses on crafting premium coffee but also houses a SCA premier training campus. This facility is dedicated to educating both coffee professionals and enthusiasts, further solidifying RAW’s commitment to enriching the coffee culture.

Under the leadership of Thompson and Toogood, RAW has achieved numerous accolades, including the 2023 Mastercard Female F&B Leader MENA and the BBC Good Foods Award for Best Homegrown Coffee Roastery in 2022.

Congratulations from backend.qahwaworld.com:

As RAW celebrates 18 remarkable years in the coffee industry, we at backend.qahwaworld.com extend our warmest congratulations. Your dedication to quality, education, and sustainability resonates deeply with us and our readers. We are excited to see what the next chapter holds for a company that continues to inspire and lead in the coffee community.

Looking Ahead:

As RAW turns the page on another chapter, the company is excited to continue its journey of innovation and excellence in the coffee industry. By leveraging strong direct relationships and a deep understanding of the market, RAW aims to enhance the lives of its coffee partners at origin and connect consumers to the world of premium coffee.

The June 2024 Coffee Market Report, issued by the International Coffee Organization, highlights significant trends and developments in the global coffee market. Key metrics such as the ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP), export statistics, and regional performance provide a comprehensive view of the market dynamics.

Overview

The June 2024 Coffee Market Report highlights significant trends and developments in the global coffee market. Key metrics such as the ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP), export statistics, and regional performance provide a comprehensive view of the market dynamics.

Price Trends

The ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) reached a 13-year high in June 2024:

• Averaged 226.83 US cents/lb, an 8.9% increase from May 2024
• Fluctuated between 221.71 and 235.69 US cents/lb
• 32.5% higher than June 2023
• 12-month rolling average at 179.39 US cents/lb

Group Indicator Prices:

• Colombian Milds: Increased 7.2% to 250.39 US cents/lb
• Other Milds: Rose 7.0% to 248.39 US cents/lb
• Brazilian Naturals: Grew 9.3% to 229.25 US cents/lb
• Robustas: Strongest growth at 10.5%, reaching 204.30 US cents/lb

Futures Markets:

• New York: Increased 8.4% to 226.42 US cents/lb
• London: Rose 10.7% to 182.82 US cents/lb

Price Differentials:

• Colombian Milds–Other Milds: Expanded from 1.39 to 2.00 US cents/lb
• Colombian Milds–Brazilian Naturals: Contracted 10.9% to 21.13 US cents/lb
• Colombian Milds–Robustas: Shrank 5.0% to 46.08 US cents/lb

Export Analysis

Overall Exports:

• Global green bean exports in May 2024: 10.76 million bags, up 12.0% year-on-year
• Cumulative total for coffee year 2023/24 (Oct-May): 84.02 million bags, up 11.6%

By Coffee Group (Green Beans):

• Colombian Milds: Up 10.0% to 1.01 million bags
• Other Milds: Increased 1.2% to 2.57 million bags
• Brazilian Naturals: Rose 56.1% to 3.8 million bags
• Robustas: Decreased 13.4% to 3.39 million bags

Regional Performance:

• Asia & Oceania: Decreased 39.3% to 2.42 million bags
  • Vietnam: Down 46.9% to 1.36 million bags
  • Indonesia: Decreased 67.1% to 0.2 million bags
• Africa: Increased 44.8% to 1.74 million bags
  • Côte d’Ivoire: Up 119.4% to 0.21 million bags
  • Ethiopia: Rose 97.1% to 0.69 million bags
  • Uganda: Increased 22.1% to 0.55 million bags
• South America: Up 59.6% to 5.54 million bags
  • Brazil: Increased 79.1% to 4.42 million bags (record high)
• Mexico & Central America: Slight increase of 0.2% to 2.074 million bags

Production and Consumption

Production (2023/24 estimates):

• Total: 178.0 million bags, up 5.8% from 2022/23
• Arabica: 102.2 million bags, up 8.8%
• Robusta: 75.8 million bags, up 2.1%

Regional Production:

• Africa: 20.1 million bags, up 12.1%
• South America: 89.3 million bags, up 9.8%
• Asia & Oceania: 49.9 million bags, up 0.3%
• Caribbean, Central America & Mexico: 18.7 million bags, down 2.5%

Consumption (2023/24 projections):

• Global: 177.0 million bags, up 2.2%
• Exporting countries: 56.5 million bags, up 2.6%
• Importing countries: 120.5 million bags, up 2.1%

Market Dynamics and Factors

Supply Concerns:

• Potential poor harvests in Vietnam and Indonesia for 2024/25
• Brazil’s 2024/25 crop may be lower than initially expected

Currency Impact:

• Brazilian real strengthened from 5.2320 to 5.5544 BRL/USD in June

Stock Levels:

• London certified stocks: Increased 24.3% to 0.97 million bags
• New York certified stocks: Rose 2.8% to 0.86 million bags

Shipping and Logistics:

• Ethiopia faced challenges due to reduced ship availability in Djibouti
• Maersk lifted its suspension of bookings to/from Djibouti on March 28, 2024

Soluble and Roasted Coffee Exports

Soluble Coffee:

• Decreased 11.3% in May 2024 to 0.95 million bags
• Year-to-date exports up 5.1% to 8.24 million bags
• Share in total exports: 8.9%, down from 9.4% year-on-year
• Brazil: Largest exporter at 0.38 million bags in May 2024

Roasted Beans:

• Increased 29.8% in May 2024 to 68,167 bags
• Cumulative total for 2023/24 (Oct-May): 0.48 million bags

This comprehensive review of the June 2024 Coffee Market Report underscores significant trends in prices, exports, production, and consumption across different regions and coffee types. The report highlights the complex interplay of factors affecting the market, including weather conditions, stock levels, currency fluctuations, and logistical challenges.

The African Fine Coffees Association (AFCA) and the International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA) have taken a significant step toward strengthening their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the prestigious World of Coffee Copenhagen event. This landmark agreement formalizes their long-standing friendship and paves the way for impactful initiatives aimed at empowering women in the African coffee industry.

The partnership promises a range of collaborative efforts designed to benefit members of both organizations. Key initiatives outlined in the MOU include:

1. Event Collaboration: AFCA and IWCA will work together on various events, including the African Fine Coffees Conference & Exhibition and the IWCA Convention. These events will serve as platforms to showcase the talents and contributions of African women in coffee.
2. Co-funding Projects and Training: The two organizations will co-fund projects and programs, offering exclusive training opportunities to their members. This initiative aims to provide members with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the coffee industry.
3. Leadership Development and Market Access: A significant focus of the partnership is to elevate African women in coffee by providing leadership development programs and improving market access. This will empower women to take on leadership roles and succeed in the competitive coffee market.

This partnership marks a crucial milestone in the journey to create more opportunities for women in the coffee sector. By combining resources and expertise, AFCA and IWCA aim to foster a supportive environment that encourages growth, innovation, and sustainability within the industry.

AFCA and IWCA members across Africa can look forward to a future filled with greater opportunities and a stronger sense of community. Together, they will work towards making a meaningful difference in the lives of African women in coffee.

About AFCA: The African Fine Coffees Association is dedicated to promoting and enhancing the production and marketing of African fine coffees.

About IWCA: The International Women’s Coffee Alliance is committed to empowering women in the international coffee community to achieve meaningful and sustainable lives.

Tanzania is set to see a rise in green coffee production by approximately 7% in the 2024/25 market year, reaching an estimated 1.5 million bags. This increase is attributed to the successful rehabilitation of aging plantations and steady demand from key buyers such as the European Union.

These insights are detailed in the new annual report from the USDA Foreign Agriculture Service on the Tanzanian coffee sector.

Production The USDA FAS office in Dar es Salaam predicts a slight increase in Tanzania’s coffee production for the 2024/25 market year compared to 2023/24, thanks to favorable weather and the maturation of rehabilitated plantations. To enhance future production, the Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB) distributed 13 million improved seedlings to farmers by November 2023, with plans to distribute a total of 25 million by the end of 2025. The government has focused on rehabilitating existing coffee farms rather than establishing new ones, with the harvested area expected to remain at 265,000 hectares.

Production Dynamics Arabica coffee dominates Tanzania’s production, accounting for approximately 60.9%, with key growing regions including Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and Tanga. Robusta coffee is primarily grown in the regions of Kagera, Mwanza, and Morogoro. Most of Tanzania’s coffee is produced by around 320,000 smallholder farmers, with a smaller portion coming from about 100 large farms.

Marketing and Sales Channels According to the FAS report, the majority of Tanzanian coffee is initially sold at the farmgate, traded in parchment or dry cherries to private buyers or cooperatives. Direct export sales enable farmers to trade directly with international buyers, with contracts needing registration with the Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB). Online auctions are another key marketing channel for Tanzanian coffees, featuring six government-approved auction sites and a centralized auction site in Moshi.

Trade The FAS office estimates that Tanzania’s green coffee exports will reach the equivalent of 1.31 million 60-kilo bags in 2024/25, up from 1.27 million bags in 2023/24 due to increased supplies. The main export destinations include the EU, Japan, the United States, Morocco, Russia, South Korea, India, Australia, and South Africa. The EU remains the top export destination for Tanzanian green coffee, with an estimated 752,000 bags in 2023/24, representing approximately 59% of exports.

The development of coffee-making robots has significantly improved with advancements in technologies like artificial intelligence. The “COFE+ Robot” developed by Shanghai HI-DOLPHIN Robotics can prepare a cup of coffee in 50 seconds and make up to 5 cups simultaneously. It can create various specialized coffees, including lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees from different countries.

The AI-powered coffee maker by Migo can independently complete processes like grinding, steaming, brewing, and cleaning, producing a hand-brewed cup in 4 minutes and up to 300 cups for 1,000 people. Han Fei Zi, the founder of HI-DOLPHIN Robotics, attributes the progress to rapid advancements in AI, automation, IoT, and sensor technology in China.

A Migo employee highlighted the extensive training the AI coffee maker has undergone, including millions of visual data training, 30,000 hours of arm training, and 3,000 hours of AI learning to replicate the manual brewing movements of top baristas, ensuring stable production.

The Migo employee pointed out that traditional manual cafes have high costs (such as labor and rent) and it is difficult to guarantee time and quality, whereas unmanned cafes have significant advantages in lower costs, reduced energy consumption, and high-quality service.

Han Fei Zi said that compared to humans, coffee robots have many advantages. For example, the robot can remember thousands of coffee recipes, which is difficult for a human barista. It can also achieve personalized customization and precise control of caffeine in the coffee cup to prevent customers from feeling unwell due to excessive caffeine intake. Additionally, it can remember the customer’s appearance through a camera to recall their taste and preferences.

The development of humanoid robots is accelerating. Will there be a humanoid robot to prepare coffee in the future? Han Fei Zi believes that humanoid robots are still in the early stages of development. Therefore, in the next 10 years, there may be small-scale demonstrations of humanoid robots making coffee, but for humanoid robots to serve people like human waiters, it should be after 10 years from a safety perspective.

Looking to the future, Han Fei Zi believes that robots can completely replace humans in making coffee, allowing humans to reduce repetitive work and engage in more valuable and fulfilling activities.

However, Zhou Danpeng, a Chinese food industry analyst, said that when we drink coffee, we actually enjoy the process of others making coffee for us. In this process, we can feel the professionalism of the baristas and get satisfaction not only from the product itself but also emotionally. The coffee made by robots may not be able to provide such emotional satisfaction.

From Zhou Danpeng’s perspective, coffee production is relatively simplified and standardized, so coffee-making robots have certain operational capabilities. However, from a comprehensive perspective of capital, industry, and consumption, the operational feasibility of coffee-making robots is not high.

“Made in China” coffee machines are widely welcomed in overseas markets. In 2023, China’s total exports of pump-type coffee machines reached 7.57 billion yuan. Following the footsteps of “Made in China” coffee machines, “Made in China” coffee robots have also spread abroad.

Han Fei Zi explained that “COFE+ Robot” coffee kiosks have been operated in more than 100 locations such as government offices, universities, airports, and tourist attractions and have been exported to more than 30 countries including the United States, Russia, France, Germany, and Italy. The AI-powered coffee maker from Migo is also sold in Southeast Asia, including many cities in Thailand.

A report by Grand View Research in November 2023 predicted that the global coffee market would reach 690.09 billion US dollars by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.2% during the forecast period. Among them, the Asia-Pacific region will achieve the fastest growth rate between 2023 and 2030, driven by the rapid development of coffee culture in the region.

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has officially opened nominations for its Board of Directors for the 2025-2027 term. This is a prime opportunity for members to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the specialty coffee industry. Nominations will close at 9:00 am PDT / 5:00 pm BST on Monday, July 15. Interested candidates can submit their nominations via the SCA website at sca.coffee/board/elections.

Board Structure and Election Details:

The SCA Board of Directors is composed of 15 volunteer members, supported by the CEO and SCA staff. This election cycle will see the implementation of a newly staggered board structure as outlined in the recently amended Bylaws. For the 2025-2027 term, seven seats are up for election:

• 2 seats for current board directors seeking a second three-year term from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027.
• 2 seats for new board directors serving a first three-year term from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027.
• 2 seats for new board directors serving a first two-year term from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026.
• 1 seat for a new board director joining the Finance Class for a first three-year term from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027.

Nominating Committee:

The nomination process this year is overseen by a committee of both past and current board members to ensure a fair and transparent selection:

• Pamela Chng, Board President
• Garfield Kerr, Board Vice President
• Andrew Tolley, Board 2nd Vice President
• Cosimo Libardo, Board Treasurer
• Konstantinos Konstantinopoulos, Emeritus Director
• Juan Luis Barrios, Emeritus Director
• Yannis Apostolopoulos, Chief Executive Officer

Election Timeline:

• Nominations Open: July 1
• Nominations Close: July 15
• Interview Period: Late July/Early August
• Slate Announcement: August 30
• Nominations by Petition Open: September 1
• Nominations by Petition Close: September 30
• Final Ballot Announcement: October 13
• Voting Period: November 1 – November 30
• Results Announcement: December 15

How to Participate:

SCA members who meet the qualifications are encouraged to submit nominations. Those not selected through the initial process can collect at least 100 signatures from professional members or the primary contact for a company member to be added to the final ballot by petition. Detailed information on the petition candidacy process is available on the SCA elections page.

Voting and Results:

SCA members will receive an email ballot from eBallot on November 1. Members who prefer a paper ballot should request it by September 30. The election results will be announced on December 15 to all SCA members and the wider coffee community.

For more details on the election process, eligibility, or to check your membership status, visit the SCA elections page or contact the Member Services Team through the SCA portal.

Seize this opportunity to influence the future of specialty coffee by participating in the 2025-2027 SCA Board of Directors election.

The 2024 World Coffee Roasting Championship concluded with 刘太阳 TaiYang Liu from China claiming the prestigious title after three days of intense competition at World of Coffee 2024 Copenhagen. Participants from around the world showcased their expertise in coffee grading, roasting profile development, and achieving exceptional cup quality.

The top four scorers in this esteemed competition are:

1. 刘太阳 TaiYang Liu, China
2. Mateusz Derkacz, Poland
3. Andrea Trevisan, Austria
4. 成磊 / Chenglei 刁/ Diao, China

The event highlighted the skills and dedication of these coffee roasting professionals. Full rankings and more details will soon be available on the official World Coffee Championships website at copenhagen.wcc.coffee.

Congratulations to 刘太阳 TaiYang Liu and all participants for making the 2024 World Coffee Roasting Championship a resounding success!

 

In a thrilling finale at the 2024 World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship held in Copenhagen, Seung Chan Wi of South Korea emerged triumphant, showcasing his exceptional mixology skills and solidifying South Korea’s prominence in the global coffee community.

Competing against a field of international talent, Wi’s innovative approach and precise technique impressed judges, securing him the top position in this prestigious competition.

The final rankings for the 2024 World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship are as follows:

1. Seung Chan Wi, South Korea
2. Sandro Roth, Switzerland
3. Andrea Villa, Italy
4. Yessylia Violin Angkasa, Indonesia
5. Sin Jay Kao, Taiwan
6. Chloe Lai, Hong Kong

Over the course of three intense days, participants from around the world captivated audiences with their creativity and mastery in crafting coffee cocktails. Sponsored by @arzumokka, the championship highlighted the artistry and skill required in the field of coffee mixology.

Congratulations to Seung Chan Wi and all participants for making the 2024 World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship a memorable success!

In a thrilling display of skill and precision, Jordan Tachnakian of France emerged victorious as the 2024 Cezve/Ibrik Champion at the World Coffee Championships held in Copenhagen. Representing France with finesse, Tachnakian captivated judges with his exceptional technique and dedication to the craft.

The final standings of the championship are as follows:

1. Jordan Tachnakian, France
2. Kevser Atmaca, Turkey
3. Ivan Bilousov, Ukraine
4. Emanuele Bernabei, Italy
5. Ply, Canada

The competition, sponsored by @arzumokka, saw participants from around the globe showcase their talent and passion for Cezve/Ibrik coffee preparation. Each competitor brought a unique blend of tradition and innovation to the stage, making it a memorable event for coffee enthusiasts worldwide.

Congratulations to Jordan Tachnakian and all the competitors who made the 2024 Cezve/Ibrik Championship a resounding success!

The 2024 World Latte Art Championship at World of Coffee Copenhagen culminated in an exhilarating victory for Yi-Chen Xie of Taiwan, who impressed judges and spectators alike with an extraordinary display of skill and creativity. Competing against a field of exceptionally talented baristas from around the globe, Xie’s winning performance showcased intricate designs and flawless execution, securing the coveted title.

Reflecting on the competition, the Specialty Coffee Association and World Coffee Championships organizers expressed admiration for Xie’s technical prowess and artistic innovation, underscoring the event’s role in celebrating the artistry of coffee preparation.

“I am thrilled and honored to represent Taiwan on this global stage,” said Yi-Chen Xie, visibly moved by the win. “This competition has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for latte art with the world.”

The final rankings of the 2024 World Latte Art Championship are as follows:

1. Yi-Chen Xie, Taiwan
2. Manuela Fensore, Italy
3. Guoqiang Liu, China
4. Dario Pieber, Switzerland
5. Sarawut Manngan, Thailand
6. Elly (Jiyu Lee), South Korea

In addition to the thrilling competition, attendees at World of Coffee Copenhagen also had the chance to vote for the Best New Product People’s Choice Award. Emerging triumphant was Squeaky. Coffee with their innovative product, SQUEAKY- The King Eddy (Electric), showcased at booth #CA-017. This inaugural award highlights the industry’s commitment to innovation and consumer engagement.