Category: News

UAE Brands Launch ‘Family Meal’ to Support Hospitality Workers

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Dubai – Qahwa World

A coalition of local and international brands, alongside leading Dubai-based chefs, has launched “Family Meal”, an initiative aimed at supporting workers across the UAE’s hospitality sector.

The programme is led by The Art of Hosting (TAOH) in partnership with Equiti Group, Sole, Jack Daniel’s, Essentially, Moloobhoy & Brown, Plus 1 Communications, Freedom Studio and food supply partner Aramtec. It reflects a coordinated industry effort to provide direct support to hospitality staff facing ongoing challenges.

Following its first distribution on April 10, the initiative will continue on April 17 and April 24, with a total of 1,500 chef-prepared meal boxes to be delivered. Each box includes a main course, side dish, dessert and beverages, with fresh juices supplied by Essentially. The meals are designed to offer a high-quality, chef-led dining experience.

The initiative targets workers across the hospitality ecosystem, including bartenders, waiters, chefs, baristas, hostesses, supervisors and back-of-house teams. By delivering meals directly to recipients, Family Meal aims to reinforce a message of solidarity within the industry.

All meals are prepared at Aramtec’s central kitchen facility in Al Quoz, where participating chefs collaborate with the TAOH team on menu development and execution. Distribution is managed through TAOH’s catering fleet, supported by volunteers, reaching communities across Satwa, Bur Dubai, Deira, Karama and Sharjah.

Participating chefs include Milan Jurkovic (21grams), Hadrien Villedieu (Chez Wham), Ahmad Halawa, Elias Kandalaft (TAOH), Earl Roland (TAOH), Robert Jhan (Aramtec), Sultan and Kinda Chatila (Eleven Green), and Shaw Lash (Lila Taqueria), alongside additional contributors. Each brings distinct culinary expertise, reflecting a diverse range of cuisines and approaches.

Kiah Khan, chief executive of The Art of Hosting, said the initiative was created in response to the pressures facing the sector. “Our hospitality community is struggling, and we felt a responsibility to act. Family Meal brings together chefs and partners to support the industry and demonstrate that we stand together,” she said.

Rajat Malhotra, partner at Sole, said: “Hospitality was among the hardest hit sectors. We are grateful for the opportunity to support those who contribute to making this city what it is.”

Sara Kayan, head of people at Equiti Group, added that the initiative reflects a broader commitment to social responsibility. “Through Family Meal, we aim to support individuals with dignity and contribute to a stronger sense of community and resilience,” she said.

Elias Kandalaft, chef and co-founder of The Art of Hosting, said the initiative highlights the role of food in expressing care. “For chefs, cooking has always been about more than food. It is how we support our community, especially in challenging times,” he said.

Each meal box carries Family Meal and partner branding, underscoring the collective nature of the effort. The initiative also invites public participation, with individuals able to sponsor a meal for AED 45.

For more information or to contribute, contact [email protected].

Keurig Dr Pepper Reports 97.75% of JDE Peet’s Shares Tendered

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Keurig Dr Pepper says post-closing acceptance period lifts its holding to 97.75% of shares, paving the way for buy-out proceedings and delisting from Euronext Amsterdam.

BURLINGTON, Mass., FRISCO, Texas and AMSTERDAM – Qahwa World

Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (“KDP”) (NASDAQ: KDP) and JDE Peet’s N.V. (“JDE Peet’s”) (EURONEXT: JDEP) jointly announced that the post-closing acceptance period relating to the Offer (the “Post-Closing Acceptance Period”) expired today at 17:40 CEST.

During the Post-Closing Acceptance Period, 7,821,867 shares were tendered under the Offer, representing approximately 1.61% of the shares and an aggregate value of approximately €249,126,463.95. Together with the 466,712,270 shares that were already acquired by the Offeror, the Offeror will hold a total of 474,534,137 shares, representing approximately 97.75% of the shares and an aggregate value of approximately €15,113,912,263.45.

With reference to the Offer Memorandum, shareholders who accepted the Offer during the Post-Closing Acceptance Period will receive the Offer Price for each tendered share transferred for acceptance pursuant to the Offer during the Post-Closing Acceptance Period, under the terms and conditions of the Offer and subject to its restrictions. Settlement of the shares tendered during the Post-Closing Acceptance Period will occur, and payment of the Offer Price for each such share will be made, on April 15, 2026. The Offeror cannot guarantee that shareholders who tendered their shares for acceptance will receive payment on this date.

As a result of the acquisition of more than 95% of the shares by the Offeror, the Offeror will initiate statutory buy-out proceedings in accordance with Section 5.13.2 (Buy-Out Proceedings) of the Offer Memorandum and will implement the post-closing demerger in accordance with Section 5.13.4 (Post-Closing Demerger) of the Offer Memorandum. As previously announced, it has been decided, in consultation with Euronext, that the last day of trading of the shares will be April 29, 2026, and that the shares will be delisted from Euronext Amsterdam on April 30, 2026.

Announcements

Any announcements contemplated by the Offer Memorandum will be made by press release. Any press release issued by the Offeror will be made available on KDP’s website. Any press release issued by JDE Peet’s will be made available on JDE Peet’s website.

Offer Memorandum; Position Statement

Digital copies of the Offer Memorandum are available on the websites of JDE Peet’s and KDP. Digital copies of the Position Statement are available on JDE Peet’s website. Copies of the Offer Memorandum will be made available, upon request, free of charge at the offices of JDE Peet’s. The websites of JDE Peet’s and KDP do not constitute a part of, and are not incorporated by reference into, the Offer Memorandum and the Position Statement.

Notice to shareholders of JDE Peet’s in the United States

The tender offer is being made for the ordinary shares of JDE Peet’s, a public limited liability company incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands with shares listed on Euronext Amsterdam. US shareholders should note that the tender and related documents are subject to Dutch disclosure and procedural requirements, which differ from those of the United States.

JDE Peet’s shares are not listed on a US securities exchange and the company is not subject to the reporting requirements of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and does not file reports with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The tender offer is being made in the United States in compliance with, and in reliance on, the exemption provided by Rule 14d-1(d), known as the “Tier II” exemption, under the Exchange Act and otherwise in accordance with Dutch law.

Receipt of cash pursuant to the tender offer by a US holder of JDE Peet’s shares will be a taxable transaction under US federal income tax law and applicable state, local and foreign tax laws. Each holder is advised to consult an independent professional adviser regarding the tax consequences.

It may be difficult for US holders to enforce their rights under US securities laws, as JDE Peet’s is located outside the United States and some or all of its officers and directors may reside outside the United States.

To the extent permissible under applicable law, JDE Peet’s and its affiliates or brokers may purchase shares outside the tender offer in the open market or through private transactions at prevailing or negotiated prices. Such purchases will not exceed the tender offer price. No purchases will be made in the United States on behalf of KDP.

Neither the SEC nor any US state securities commission has approved or disapproved the tender offer or passed upon its merits. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States.

Restrictions

The distribution of this press release may be restricted in certain jurisdictions. Persons who receive this document should inform themselves of and observe any such restrictions. Failure to comply may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws. Neither KDP nor JDE Peet’s assumes responsibility for any such violations.

This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer or invitation to acquire or dispose of any securities or investment advice.

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to the impact of the transaction, future financial performance, cost savings and synergies. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially.

Neither KDP nor JDE Peet’s undertakes any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.

Cell-Cultured Coffee Moves Closer to Market

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Zurich  — Qahwa World

As climate change and surging global demand strain traditional coffee farming, a laboratory-grown alternative is moving from an experimental concept to a potential market contender. Cell-cultured coffee, produced by nurturing coffee plant cells in bioreactors and then harvesting, drying, roasting, and brewing the resulting biomass, has secured significant new funding and regulatory momentum over the past 18 months, according to industry developments and foundational research led by Professor Chahan Yeretzian.

Yeretzian, who retired in early 2026 as head of the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) Coffee Excellence Center after more than three decades of pioneering work, laid the analytical groundwork for this emerging category. His landmark 2024 study, published in ACS Food Science & Technology, provided the first rigorous, side-by-side chemical and sensory comparison of cell-cultured coffee (CC) and traditional farm-grown beans (TC). The paper’s three-step analytical platform, examining unroasted precursors, roasted volatiles, and brewed sensory profiles, demonstrated that while the two are chemically distinct, the lab-grown version can be optimized to deliver authentic coffee character.

The findings have since become a blueprint for commercial players. In February 2025, Zurich-based Food Brewer AG closed a CHF 5 million seed extension, bringing its total funding to approximately CHF 10 million. Strategic investors include Lindt & Sprüngli and Sparkalis, the venture arm of Puratos, both of which are actively testing the company’s coffee and cocoa biomass for potential integration into products. Food Brewer grows cells sourced locally in Switzerland, processes them through lyophilization and roasting, and is scaling production under controlled bioreactor conditions, precisely the approach Yeretzian’s research showed could preserve aroma precursors without relying on tropical agriculture.

You may read: A Cell-Cultured Coffee Revolution Gains Momentum

A parallel effort in Asia is also gaining traction. In April 2025, Singapore-based Another Food announced plans for large-scale commercialization, beginning in Singapore and expanding into Thailand and Malaysia. The startup positions its non-GMO, cell-derived coffee as a hedge against supply-chain volatility, price swings, and quality inconsistencies caused by climate impacts on conventional farming.

These developments echo the vision Yeretzian outlined in late 2024 interviews and earlier writings. “If we love coffee so much, can part of the supply come from sources that are less harmful to the environment and more efficient?” he asked. The 2024 paper reinforced that cell-cultured coffee need not merely imitate traditional beans but could expand the category. By adjusting precursor compounds, including sugars, amino acids, lipids, chlorogenic acids, and caffeine, scientists can explore novel flavor profiles beyond the constraints of the coffee bean’s natural matrix.

The study’s detailed results underscored both promise and challenges. Unroasted cell-cultured biomass showed dramatically higher monosaccharides (52% of dry weight, primarily glucose and fructose) but far lower levels of amino acids (0.07%), lipids (1.98%), chlorogenic acids (0.07%), caffeine (0.15%), and trigonelline (absent). After roasting in a custom nanoroaster, the aroma profile registered only about 40% of the intensity of traditional coffee, with fewer pyrazines, Strecker aldehydes, and guaiacols, but a pronounced dominance of furfurals (54% of volatiles versus 10–15% in conventional roasts). Sensory panels noted milder bitterness and acidity, lower extraction yields due to the powder-like structure, and reduced psychoactive effects resulting from lower caffeine and chlorogenic acid content.

Yeretzian and co-authors, including lead analyst Jaloliddin Khushvakov and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland cell-culture expert Heiko Rischer, concluded that the bean’s physical structure acts as a “pressurized microreactor” essential for full flavor development. They emphasized that these differences are not insurmountable barriers; rather, they open doors to customization and hybrid products that blend cell-cultured and traditional coffee.

Regulatory pathways remain the primary hurdle. As a novel food, cell-cultured coffee requires formal approvals in major markets. Submissions are now under review in the United States, Singapore, and the European Union, with analysts projecting clearances within the next 12 to 24 months. Industry observers note that beanless surrogate coffees, which do not use coffee cellular material, have reached shelves more quickly, but cell-cultured versions benefit from a stronger scientific foundation and clearer environmental credentials.

Market forecasts reflect growing confidence. The global cell-cultured coffee sector, valued at roughly $173–362 million in 2024–2025, is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 16–21%, potentially reaching hundreds of millions of dollars by the early 2030s as production scales and costs decline.

Yeretzian has consistently framed cell-cultured coffee as a complement, not a replacement, for farm-grown beans. In his emeritus role, the research he championed continues to influence the Coffee Excellence Center and the startups now translating it into products. The 2024 paper’s analytical platform has already become an industry standard for evaluating any coffee alternative.

For an industry facing deforestation, carbon emissions, and unpredictable harvests, the convergence of Yeretzian’s decades of aroma chemistry expertise with fresh capital and regulatory progress marks a pivotal moment. If approvals materialize as expected, the first commercial cell-cultured coffees could appear on shelves or in blends by late 2027 or 2028, not as a wholesale substitute for tradition, but as a scientifically validated innovation that could help secure coffee’s future while expanding its sensory possibilities.

March 2026 Coffee Market Report: Global Prices Rebound Amid Geopolitical Tension

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Global Coffee Market Report: March 2026

An In-Depth Expert Analysis by an Independent Journalist – Based on the Official ICO Coffee Market Report

Dubai – Qahwa World

The global coffee market experienced one of its most dramatic and multifaceted months in recent memory during March 2026. After three consecutive months of steady price erosion, the ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) staged a decisive rebound, averaging 273.70 US cents/lb, a solid 2.3% increase from February’s 267.57 US cents/lb. This recovery was not driven by traditional supply fundamentals alone. Instead, it was propelled by an abrupt and powerful geopolitical shock that temporarily overrode the market’s otherwise bearish supply outlook. The result was a case study in how external macro forces can intersect with coffee-specific dynamics to create extreme short-term volatility while leaving longer-term questions unresolved.

The Strait of Hormuz Crisis: A Geopolitical Black Swan for Commodities

The catalyst arrived on 4 March when the Strait of Hormuz was declared closed to vessels allied with the United States amid escalating conflict in the Middle East. Few waterways are as strategically vital: roughly 25% of the world’s seaborne oil trade and nearly 20% of global liquefied natural gas exports transit this narrow passage. The immediate consequences rippled far beyond energy markets. Brent crude prices breached $100 per barrel within days. Bunker fuel, container freight rates, and marine insurance premiums spiked simultaneously. Coffee traders, already navigating a complex supply picture, responded with aggressive risk-on buying.

You may read : ICO February 2026 Report: Has the Inflationary Wave Receded?

The ICO report highlights the dual impact on the sector. In the short term, higher shipping costs and energy expenses added upward pressure on physical coffee premiums. In the longer term, the disruption threatened fertilizer supply chains. The Gulf region is a major global fertilizer producer, and between one-quarter and one-third of the entire global fertilizer trade, including up to one-third of nitrogen fertilizers such as urea, passes through the strait. While the current 2025/26 crop cycle was largely insulated as most fertilizers had already been applied, any prolongation of the blockade would create risks for the 2026/27 season. This layered uncertainty injected a significant risk premium into coffee futures and physical markets.

March in Four Distinct Phases: A Masterclass in Market Psychology

Phase 1 – Geopolitical Rally (2–9 March): The month opened with the I-CIP at 267.40 US cents/lb. Within five trading days of the blockade announcement, risk-premium buying propelled prices to 278.77 US cents/lb, a 4.3% surge. The rally reflected surging energy costs, freight rates, and insurance premiums, which created a cost-push narrative embraced by coffee bulls.

Phase 2 – Sharp Correction (10–13 March): The market reversed sharply. On 10–11 March the I-CIP fell from 276.01 to 267.19 US cents/lb. The trigger was fundamentals. Leading brokerages Marex Group Plc and Sucafina released forecasts for Brazil’s 2026/27 crop at 75.9 million bags and 75.4 million bags respectively. By 13 March the I-CIP reached its monthly low of 265.50 US cents/lb. Risk appetite weakened further as broader financial markets rotated toward safe-haven assets.

Phase 3 – Stabilization and New Rally (14–24 March): Prices stabilized in the 269–271 US cents/lb range. Mixed signals emerged, including reports of limited vessel traffic through the Strait and persistent backwardation in the futures curve, indicating continued tightness in nearby supply.

Phase 4 – Late-Month Spike and Selloff (25–30 March): The rally faded as bearish catalysts returned. Rabobank reiterated its forecast of an 8.64 million-bag global surplus for 2026/27. Selling pressure intensified, and the month closed weaker despite the overall monthly gain.

This four-phase structure highlights a market shaped by competing forces: geopolitical risk provided temporary support, while expectations of record production capped upside momentum.

Divergent Performance Across Coffee Groups

  • Colombian Milds: +2.0% to 337.45 US cents/lb
  • Other Milds: +4.0% to 334.34 US cents/lb
  • Brazilian Naturals: +3.9% to 320.51 US cents/lb
  • Robustas: –1.6% to 176.77 US cents/lb

The London Robusta contract fell 2.5% to 161.91 US cents/lb, while New York Arabica futures rose 0.5% to 290.18 US cents/lb. Differentials reflected this divergence. The Colombian Milds–Other Milds gap narrowed from 9.54 to 3.12 US cents/lb. The Brazilian Naturals–Robustas gap widened to 143.74 US cents/lb, and the Other Milds–Robustas gap expanded to 157.57 US cents/lb. The arbitrage between London and New York futures increased to 128.27 US cents/lb.

You may also read: Global Coffee Market Roadmap—January 2026

Intra-day volatility eased slightly, with the I-CIP volatility falling to 9.8%. Robustas volatility rose to 10.9%. Certified stocks showed contrasting trends: London Robusta stocks contracted 10.7% to 0.66 million bags, while New York Arabica stocks increased 17.7% to 0.61 million bags.

February 2026 Export Data: The Underlying Supply Reality

While March prices reacted to geopolitics, February trade data revealed structural supply pressure. Global green-bean exports fell 9.0% year-on-year to 9.79 million bags. Total exports of all forms of coffee declined 5.7% to 11.46 million bags.

Regional Breakdown (All Forms of Coffee)

  • Asia & Oceania: –4.7% to 4.45 million bags. Vietnam’s exports fell 14.9% to 2.76 million bags due to the timing of Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), which reduced working days. India partially offset this with a 38.5% increase.
  • South America: –21.8% to 3.61 million bags. Brazil and Colombia recorded significant declines in both exports and production.
  • Caribbean, Mexico & Central America: +30.0% to 1.98 million bags. Honduras led gains due to harvest timing shifts caused by previous weather disruptions.
  • Africa: +5.9% to 1.43 million bags, driven by Côte d’Ivoire.

Arabica’s share of total green-bean exports for the first five months of coffee year 2025/26 declined to 60.9% from 65.1% a year earlier.

Processed coffee exports showed strength, with soluble coffee rising 18.0% to 1.6 million bags and roasted exports increasing 85.1% from a low base.

Supply-Demand Balance: A Surplus on the Horizon

The ICO supply-demand balance for the coffee year beginning October 2024 shows world production at 177.51 million bags, up 5.2% year-on-year. Consumption rose 1.4% to 175.07 million bags. This results in a surplus of 2.44 million bags, marking a shift toward oversupply conditions.

Expert Perspective: What This Means for the Industry

March 2026 demonstrated the coffee market’s sensitivity to external shocks even in a structurally supply-heavy environment. Geopolitical developments provided temporary price support, but underlying fundamentals continued to reflect expectations of abundant supply, particularly from Brazil’s projected 2026/27 crop.

Input costs remain a key variable, particularly fertilizer supply chains linked to the Strait of Hormuz. Any prolonged disruption could influence production costs and future output. Meanwhile, widening Arabica–Robusta differentials and inter-market arbitrage opportunities reflect shifting trade dynamics across futures markets.

Conclusion

The March 2026 coffee market absorbed a significant geopolitical shock while maintaining its broader supply-driven trajectory. The ICO Composite Indicator Price rose 2.3%, halting a three-month decline. However, volatility and late-month weakness reinforced the dominance of supply expectations in shaping market direction. Attention now turns to developments affecting logistics, input costs, and the 2026/27 production cycle.

All data, figures, and phase descriptions are drawn directly and exclusively from the International Coffee Organization’s official Coffee Market Report – March 2026. Analysis and contextual commentary are the independent assessment of the author.

 

Vienna Coffee Culture: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

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Vienna – Qahwa World

Vienna’s coffeehouse culture stands at the core of the city’s identity, functioning not just as places to drink coffee, but as long-established social and cultural spaces that define the rhythm of urban life. In 2026, this tradition becomes a primary gateway for discovering the city, especially for travelers from the Gulf Cooperation Council seeking calm, authenticity, and culturally rich experiences.

At the heart of this heritage is the Frauenhuber Coffeehouse, one of Vienna’s most historic cafés. Located in a centuries-old building, it reflects the deep connection between coffee, music, and culture, and has long been associated with classical artistic traditions and performances.

In contrast, Jonas Reindl Coffee Roasters represents the modern evolution of Vienna’s coffee scene, focusing on specialty roasting and minimalist spaces that prioritize quality, precision, and a refined contemporary coffee experience.

Meanwhile, the Café Schwarzenberg embodies the classic Viennese coffeehouse tradition, where coffee is part of a daily ritual accompanied by pastries and breakfast in an elegant historic setting dating back to the nineteenth century.

This diversity extends to contemporary cafés such as Café Candelifi, Café Rosy Bizzl, and Central Roses Bar Café, which reflect the evolving café landscape—from plant-based concepts to seasonal menus and modern Central and Eastern European influences.

Beyond coffee culture, Vienna reveals a renewed culinary scene that blends tradition and innovation, presenting the city in a new light for Gulf travelers beyond its conventional association with a limited set of traditional dishes.

Within this framework, Glasing at the Amaryos offers a modern interpretation of Austrian cuisine in an artistic environment, while Herzig, a Michelin-starred restaurant, delivers a precise and innovative dining experience defined by creativity, attention to detail, and a quiet location away from the city center.

At the same time, Gmuckler preserves traditional Austrian culinary heritage through authentic local dishes that reflect the city’s gastronomic identity.

In hospitality, the Mandarin Oriental Vienna combines luxury design with fine dining inside a historic Art Nouveau building, while Schöteck Palace is set to expand Vienna’s hotel landscape with its upcoming opening in a restored historic palace.

Overall, Vienna in 2026 offers Gulf travelers a layered experience that begins in its coffeehouses and extends into dining and hospitality, presenting a city best understood through its lived cultural and sensory experiences rather than its traditional image alone.

Strength in the Brazilian Real Boosts Coffee Prices

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Coffee futures moved higher on Friday, supported by currency strength and supply dynamics. May arabica coffee (KCK26) rose by +6.40 points (+2.18%), while May ICE robusta coffee (RMK26) gained +14 points (+0.42%).

Arabica prices reached a one-week high, while robusta rebounded from its lowest level in 8.5 months in nearby futures. The rally was largely driven by the appreciation of the Brazilian real, which climbed to a two-year high against the US dollar. A stronger real tends to discourage export selling by Brazilian producers, tightening global supply.

Supply Trends and Inventory Movements

Tight robusta supplies continue to support prices. ICE-monitored robusta inventories declined to 3,977 lots, marking a 1.25-year low. In contrast, arabica inventories have increased, limiting price gains. ICE arabica stocks rose to 585,621 bags on March 18, the highest level in more than six months.

Shipping Disruptions Impact Global Trade

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global shipping routes, tightening coffee supplies worldwide. The disruption has increased freight rates, insurance costs, and fuel expenses, raising overall costs for coffee importers and roasters.

Weather Conditions in Brazil Support Prices

Weather conditions in Brazil are also providing support. Somar Meteorologia reported that Minas Gerais, the country’s largest arabica-growing region, received 11.7 mm of rainfall last week, representing only 47% of the historical average. Below-normal rainfall may affect crop development and support prices.

Record Crop Expectations Weigh on Market Sentiment

Despite current support factors, expectations of a record Brazilian coffee crop continue to pressure the market. On March 19, Marex Group Plc projected Brazil’s 2026/27 coffee production at 75.9 million bags, exceeding Sucafina’s estimate of 75.4 million bags and marking a 15.5% year-on-year increase.

On March 12, StoneX raised its forecast to 75.3 million bags, up from a previous estimate of 70.7 million bags. The firm also expects the global coffee surplus to expand to 10 million bags in 2026, compared to 1.8 million bags in 2025, representing the largest surplus in six years.

Vietnam Export Growth Pressures Robusta

Rising exports from Vietnam, the world’s largest robusta producer, are weighing on prices. Vietnam’s National Statistics Office reported that coffee exports in the first quarter of 2026 increased by 14% year-on-year to 585,000 metric tons.

In 2025, exports rose by 17.5% to 1.58 million metric tons. Production for the 2025/26 season is expected to increase by 6% to 1.76 million metric tons (29.4 million bags), reaching a four-year high.

Decline in Brazilian Exports Offers Support

Recent export data from Brazil provided additional support to prices. Cecafe reported that green coffee exports in February fell by 27% year-on-year to 2.3 million bags. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Trade Ministry reported a 31% decline in March exports to 151,000 metric tons.

Recent Price Trends and Global Outlook

Coffee prices declined sharply in February, with arabica falling to a 16.75-month low on February 24 due to expectations of strong Brazilian supply.

Brazil’s crop agency Conab projected on February 5 that 2026 coffee production would rise by 17.2% year-on-year to a record 66.2 million bags. Arabica output is expected to increase by 23.2% to 44.1 million bags, while robusta production is forecast to grow by 6.3% to 22.1 million bags.

Rabobank reported on March 4 that global coffee production for the 2026/27 season is expected to reach a record 180 million bags, about 8 million bags higher than the previous year.

Global Trade and Production Forecasts

The International Coffee Organization (ICO) reported on November 7 that global coffee exports for the current marketing year (October to September) declined by 0.3% year-on-year to 138.658 million bags.

The USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) projected in its December 18 report that global coffee production for 2025/26 will increase by 2.0% to a record 178.848 million bags. Arabica production is expected to decline by 4.7% to 95.515 million bags, while robusta output is forecast to rise by 10.9% to 83.333 million bags.

FAS also estimates that Brazil’s 2025/26 coffee production will fall by 3.1% to 63 million bags, while Vietnam’s production will increase by 6.2% to 30.8 million bags. Ending stocks for the 2025/26 season are projected to decline by 5.4% to 20.148 million bags, down from 21.307 million bags in 2024/25.

Coffee Quality Institute Reactivates Coffee Corps

Posted on by Qahwa World

San Diego – Qahwa World

The Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) today announced the reactivation of its groundbreaking volunteer program, Coffee Corps, and issued its first new call for volunteers.

CQI Coffee Corps is a peer-to-peer education program that enlists experienced coffee professionals as volunteers to help producers build capacity in topics related to coffee quality and is now focused on Coffee Corps reactivation CQI. Since its inception in 2002, hundreds of Coffee Corps volunteers have created professional development opportunities for thousands of producers in coffee communities around the world in service of CQI’s mission. The program has been dormant since the global coronavirus pandemic, but CQI is reactivating it in 2026 as the organization marks its 30th anniversary, an important milestone for Coffee Corps reactivation CQI efforts.

“The CQI Coffee Corps program represents the very best of the coffee sector,” said Coffee Quality Institute CEO Michael Sheridan. “Coffee Corps volunteers embody a spirit of generosity and collaboration that has expanded opportunities for producers and made our industry stronger. As we recommit to our mission to foster development in coffee communities, I can’t imagine doing it without the support of a new generation of CQI Coffee Corps volunteer leaders.” Coffee Corps reactivation CQI will empower even more volunteers to make an impact in the years ahead.

You may like to read: CQI CEO Michael Sheridan Highlights Strong Q1 2026 Momentum

Coffee Corps volunteers have driven impact in coffee communities through support for a broad range of activities, including sensory evaluation, post-harvest processing, enterprise management, and trade development. Their work has been pivotal in supporting advances in quality in established coffee origins like Colombia and Ethiopia, and in developing new sources of quality coffee in places like Laos and Myanmar. Thus, Coffee Corps reactivation CQI stands as a crucial initiative for the sector’s continued growth.

“The beauty of Coffee Corps is in the sheer number of benefits it provides,” stated T.J. Ryan, Managing Director of Programs at CQI. “It provides projects with access to world-class coffee expertise while allowing coffee experts a chance to give back and apply their technical know-how to solve coffee sector problems. It also helps expand networks, building the potential for future benefits. I am very pleased that we are reactivating this program comprised of exceptional professionals.”

Also today, CQI published four new volunteer opportunities in connection with Brewing Better Futures, a farm worker innovation pilot led by the independent nonprofit organization Verité. Further information regarding Coffee Corps, volunteer opportunities, and requirements are available on the Coffee Quality Institute’s website.

About Coffee Quality Institute

CQI is a non-profit organization that works globally to improve the quality of coffee and the lives of the people who produce it. For thirty years, CQI has trained people who produce and process coffee in more than thirty coffee-growing countries around the world.

 

Bala Shao-Sing Crowned 2026 World Latte Art Champion

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San Diego – Qahwa World

The 2026 World Latte Art Championship concluded in spectacular fashion as part of the World of Coffee San Diego exhibition,

bringing together some of the finest specialty coffee artists from around the globe in a highly competitive and visually stunning final.

This year’s championship featured 33 competitors from various national competition bodies, with six finalists advancing to the final round.
The finalists delivered performances that blended technical precision, artistic expression, and storytelling through intricate latte designs.

At the end of the competition, the World Coffee Championships organization crowned
林紹興🇹🇼Bala, Shao-Sing representing Taiwan as the 2026 World Latte Art Champion,
following a performance praised for its consistency, precision, and artistic complexity in cup presentation.

Final Standings – Top Six

  • 1st Place: 林紹興🇹🇼Bala, Shao-Sing – Taiwan
  • 2nd Place: Jacky Chang – Malaysia
  • 3rd Place: Zhang Yuanyi (Zking) – China
  • 4th Place: Bank Sarawut – Thailand
  • 5th Place: Jay Kim – South Korea
  • 6th Place: Tatsuya Ishibashi – Japan

The World Coffee Championships organizers noted that this edition delivered an exceptionally high level of latte art craftsmanship,
reflecting the continued evolution of specialty coffee culture and the growing global standards in competitive coffee arts.

The event concluded with strong appreciation from audiences and industry professionals, highlighting the championship’s role as a global platform
for creativity, technical excellence, and cultural exchange within the coffee community.

Bala Shao-Sing Crowned 2026 World Latte Art Champion

 

Best Coffee Capsules in Russia 2026

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Moscow — Qahwa World

A detailed market study published by VC.ru presents the top 20 coffee capsules in Russia for 2026, covering multiple systems, price segments, and consumer preferences.

The report reflects not only Russian consumer behavior but also wider trends across post-Soviet markets and global capsule coffee consumption patterns.

  • Based on sales volume and verified customer reviews
  • Includes budget, mid-range, and premium capsules
  • Growing demand for milk-based coffee drinks
  • Strong preference for multi-pack economic solutions

Top Selling Coffee Capsules

Product Description
Julius Meinl Lungo Forte Balanced espresso with chocolate notes and strong daily performance.
Julius Meinl Espresso Delizioso 100% Arabica with fruity acidity and nutty finish.
Drive Absolut Latte Macchiato Two-capsule milk coffee system with creamy texture.
Drive Absolut Espresso (96) Bulk pack designed for daily consumption efficiency.
Drive Absolut Espresso (16) Budget entry-level capsule option.
Single Cup Coffee Classic Multi-flavor tasting set with 5 coffee profiles.

Caffitaly & Di Maestri Systems

Product Description
Caffitaly Professional Classic Three blends in one introductory pack.
Caffitaly Cappuccino Instant milk-based cappuccino capsule.
Di Maestri Arabica (80) Large pack of smooth Arabica blend.
Di Maestri Arabica (30) Trial version for new users.
Caffitaly Prezioso Soft espresso with fruity chocolate notes.

Premium & Strong Coffee Capsules

Product Description
Carraro Aroma e Gusto Intenso Strong Italian blend with intensity level 12.
Nespresso Roma (30) Classic Italian espresso profile.
Nespresso Roma (50) Large pack for regular users.
Testa Rossa Arabica Arabica with berry and caramel notes.
Giosso Caramel Caramel flavored espresso capsule.
Dolce Gusto Cortado Espresso with light milk balance.

Market Insights

The Russian capsule coffee market continues to grow steadily due to convenience, consistent taste, and fast preparation time.

Consumers increasingly prefer larger packs and milk-based beverages, reshaping demand across all segments.

Coffee World — Global Coffee Market Analysis

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The Science Behind the Perfect Espresso

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

Coffee lovers often search for the ideal espresso, but scientists are now asking whether it can be understood—and even predicted—using mathematics and physics.

A group of international researchers from science and environmental fields recently explored how brewing behavior might be described through mathematical modeling, focusing on how water interacts with compacted coffee grounds inside an espresso machine.

The Role of the Coffee “Puck”

At the center of the study is the coffee puck—the tightly packed layer of ground coffee used during espresso extraction. When hot water passes through it under pressure, it extracts flavor compounds, oils, and caffeine.

The structure of this coffee puck plays a major role in how evenly water flows and how much flavor is extracted.

Many factors influence this process, including how fine the coffee is ground, how densely it is packed, and how long water interacts with it.

How the Research Was Conducted

To better understand the internal structure of coffee beds, researchers tested different grind sizes using beans from multiple origins. They examined how particles arranged themselves when compressed into espresso-like samples.

  • Multiple grind sizes ranging from fine to coarse were tested
  • Samples were packed under controlled conditions
  • Advanced 3D imaging was used to study internal pore spaces

Using high-resolution imaging technology, the team mapped tiny gaps between coffee particles. These spaces determine how easily water can move through the puck.

Simulating Water Flow Through Coffee

The researchers applied computer-based models inspired by percolation principles, which describe how fluids move through connected structures.

These simulations helped reveal how water distributes itself inside different coffee structures and how extraction efficiency changes with grind size and density.

What Affects Espresso Extraction?

According to the study, several physical properties influence the brewing process:

  • Particle size of ground coffee
  • Density of the packed puck
  • Connectivity of internal pore spaces
  • Surface area exposed to water

Together, these factors determine how long water remains in contact with the coffee and how much material is extracted.

Why This Research Matters

While the study is highly technical, its practical applications may include improving brewing equipment, optimizing grinder settings, and helping industrial coffee systems produce more consistent results.

However, researchers also emphasize that even with advanced models, personal taste still plays a major role in defining what makes the “perfect” espresso.

Conclusion

Science may be able to describe and predict how espresso extraction works, but the final judgment of quality still belongs to the drinker.

 

Nuclear Science Secures the Future of Coffee

Posted on by Qahwa World

How “Birth Control” for Pests is Saving the Global Brew

VIENNA – Qahwa World

In a landmark announcement, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have confirmed that nuclear science is now the primary shield protecting the world’s multibillion-dollar coffee industry from its most destructive adversary: the Mediterranean fruit fly.

The Invisible Threat to Your Morning Cup

While coffee is one of the most beloved beverages globally, it is also a favorite target for the Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata). The biological damage is devastatingly precise. The female fly deposits eggs into the coffee berries, and once the larvae hatch, they feed on the internal pulp.

New technical data released by the IAEA and FAO clarifies that this process does more than just damage the fruit; the larvae “suck out essential nutrients,” which directly stunts the development of the coffee bean. This prevented beans from reaching their natural size and density, leading to lighter, “hollow” harvests that lacked the physical properties required for high-quality roasting.

The damage happens silently — inside the fruit — long before the coffee reaches the cup.

The SIT Breakthrough: “Birth Control” for Insects

To combat this without the use of toxic chemical pesticides, the IAEA, in cooperation with the FAO, has deployed the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). This environmentally friendly “insect birth control” method works through a precise four-step cycle:

  • Mass Rearing: Millions of male flies are raised in specialized bio-factories.
  • Irradiation: The insects are exposed to controlled radiation (gamma or X-rays), which sterilizes them without affecting their health or competitive drive.
  • Aerial Release: These sterile males are released over coffee plantations.
  • Population Collapse: When they mate with wild females, no offspring are produced.

From “Wormy” Fruit to Award-Winning Quality

The results from the field provide a dramatic “before and after” for the coffee industry. Farmers who once struggled with harvests filled with “worms” (larvae) are now reporting a transformation in their crops.

Increased Weight & Density: Because the beans are no longer being drained of nutrients, they are growing to their full biological potential.

Superior “Cup Quality”: The SIT has saved the sensory profile of the bean.

Market Expansion: These high-quality beans are now qualifying for international specialty markets.

“Earlier, I used to find many worms in the fruit. But now, the change is visible. There are fewer worms, the coffee is heavier, and the cup quality is much better.”

A Global Success Story

From the Moscamed Program in Mexico and Guatemala to emerging projects in Africa and the Asia-Pacific, joint IAEA–FAO initiatives are ensuring that coffee remains sustainable and profitable.

 

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ICO, IACO Sign MoU on Coffee Cooperation

Posted on by Qahwa World

Agreement at World of Coffee San Diego focuses on data, regulation, and support for Africa’s coffee sector

San Diego — Qahwa World

The first day of World of Coffee San Diego saw the International Coffee Organization (ICO) and the Inter-African Coffee Organisation (IACO) formalise their cooperation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).The agreement builds on an existing relationship between the two institutions and outlines areas for closer coordination across data, research, and policy support for African coffee-producing countries.

Structured Cooperation Across Key Areas

The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration in several technical and strategic areas relevant to the evolving coffee landscape.

These include improving data collection and analysis, supporting compliance with regulatory developments such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), advancing research into climate resilience, and strengthening capacity along the coffee value chain.

While the agreement does not introduce binding commitments, it provides a basis for coordinated initiatives and information exchange between the two organisations.

Africa’s Position in Focus

The partnership also reflects a continued effort to better integrate African perspectives into global coffee discussions.

African producing countries play a significant role in global coffee supply, yet continue to face structural challenges, including exposure to climate risks, limited access to finance, and evolving market requirements.

Through closer institutional coordination, the ICO and IACO aim to support member countries in navigating these challenges and engaging more effectively with international frameworks.

Institutional Context

The International Coffee Organization, established in 1963, serves as an intergovernmental platform for cooperation between coffee-exporting and importing countries, with a focus on market transparency, sustainability, and sector development.

The Inter-African Coffee Organisation represents African coffee-producing nations and works to promote production, improve quality, and enhance the competitiveness of the region’s coffee sector.

The MoU reflects a continuation of engagement between the two bodies rather than a new institutional direction.

World of Coffee as a Meeting Point

World of Coffee, organised by the Specialty Coffee Association, provides a platform for industry stakeholders ranging from producers and exporters to roasters, researchers, and policymakers.

The San Diego edition highlights ongoing conversations around sustainability, regulation, and market dynamics, with a growing emphasis on coordination between producing and consuming regions.

Participants

  • Vanusia Nogueira, Executive Director of the International Coffee Organization
  • H.E. Ambassador Solomon Rutega, Secretary General of the Inter-African Coffee Organisation
  • Claude Bizimana, Executive Chairman of the Inter-African Coffee Organisation
  • Celestine Gataraiha, Director of Research and Development at the Inter-African Coffee Organisation

Analysis

Memoranda of understanding are a common instrument in international cooperation, often used to formalise intent and provide a structure for future collaboration rather than immediate operational change.

In this context, the ICO–IACO agreement can be seen as part of a broader pattern of institutional alignment within the coffee sector, particularly as regulatory and environmental pressures increase.

Its practical significance will depend on how the outlined areas of cooperation translate into concrete programmes and measurable outcomes over time.

Reporting by Qahwa World from San Diego