Category: News

Coffee Sector Adopts Procurement Principles to Strengthen Farmer Livelihoods

Posted on by Qahwa World

BONN – Qahwa World

Leading players in the global coffee sector have announced two new procurement principles aimed at supporting the long-term economic sustainability of coffee farmers. The principles, developed over nine months by the Global Coffee Platform (GCP), IDH, and Solidaridad, focus on building strategic partnerships and promoting sustainable coffee production, marking a coordinated effort to encourage more responsible sourcing practices across the industry.

The initiative involved 14 major coffee companies, including Caravela, ECOM, illycaffè, JDE Peet’s, Louis Dreyfus Company, Neumann Kaffee Gruppe, Taylors of Harrogate, UCC, and Volcafe. The principles build on insights from the 2024 report The Grounds for Sharing, which examined the challenges and opportunities for farmer resilience in global coffee supply chains.

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  • Shifting Toward Long-Term Collaboration

The first principle, strategic partnerships, emphasizes moving away from short-term transactions and toward longer-term, trust-based collaborations between farmers, traders, roasters, and retailers. According to Annette Pensel, Executive Director of GCP, “Ensuring the long-term economic viability of sustainable coffee farming and overall farmer prosperity is essential for a resilient supply and competitive coffee sector. This requires shared responsibility and a more coordinated approach across the industry.”

The second principle, Sustainable Coffee Production, encourages conditions that allow farmers to recover their costs and invest in long-term improvements to both their livelihoods and farming systems. Mette-Marie Hansen of IDH said, “By embedding longer-term partnerships and sustainable production conditions, companies can contribute to more resilient supply chains and improved economic viability for farmers. At IDH, this work is seen as a foundation for scaling more responsible purchasing practices across the sector.”

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Andrea Olivar from Solidaridad added that the principles are intended to create a framework where all stakeholders in coffee supply chains—farmers, traders, and retailers—benefit from their efforts. “These principles are fundamental to promoting the prosperity of coffee producers while securing supply for the global market,” she said.

The release of the principles highlights the critical role of procurement in shaping the conditions in which farmers operate. While procurement alone cannot solve all challenges facing coffee producers, when combined with supportive public policies, inclusive finance, and improved farm practices, it can significantly enhance farmer resilience and economic outcomes.

Read also: ICO Relaunches Global Coffee Sustainability Platform with Enhanced Tools

The publication Identifying Common Procurement Principles Specific to Coffee is now available, signaling a growing industry commitment to responsible sourcing and long-term sustainability in coffee production.

Lablibell Bajarias Wins Lavazza Barista Challenge 2026

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Turin – Qahwa World

The international final of the Lavazza Barista Challenge 2026 concluded in Turin with a standout victory for Lablibell Bajarias of the United Arab Emirates, who secured the top title among competitors representing 20 countries.

The prestigious competition brought together leading coffee professionals from around the world, each showcasing a high level of expertise across multiple disciplines. Participants were evaluated on technical extraction skills, the creation of innovative signature beverages, presentation, and their ability to deliver exceptional customer engagement.

Hosted in Turin, a city synonymous with Italy’s rich coffee heritage, the event served as both a celebration of tradition and a platform for modern innovation. Competitors demonstrated not only precision in brewing techniques but also creativity in crafting unique coffee experiences that reflect evolving consumer expectations.

You may read: Lablibell Crowned UAE Lavazza Barista Champion

Bajarias’ performance stood out for its balance of technical mastery and creativity, earning recognition from the panel of judges and securing the United Arab Emirates a prominent place on the global coffee stage.

The Lavazza Barista Challenge continues to highlight the growing importance of education, craftsmanship, and innovation within the international coffee community. This year’s edition reinforced the industry’s dynamic nature, where tradition meets forward-thinking approaches to coffee preparation and service.

As the competition concludes, it leaves a clear message: the future of coffee lies in the hands of skilled professionals who are redefining excellence through passion, precision, and innovation.

Coffee Slides on Supply Surge Signals

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London – Qahwa World

Coffee futures dropped notably, with arabica hitting its lowest level in about a week and robusta sinking to a multi-month low. The decline comes as expectations grow for a significantly larger global supply, led by Brazil.

Forecasts from multiple analysts point to a record-breaking Brazilian harvest in the 2026/27 season, with estimates clustering around the mid-70 million bag range—marking a strong year-over-year increase. This optimistic outlook has weighed heavily on prices in recent sessions.

The downturn intensified as the U.S. dollar strengthened to its highest level in over ten months, adding further pressure to commodity markets, including coffee.

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Despite the broader bearish tone, some factors are offering support—particularly for robusta. Exchange-monitored inventories have tightened recently, signaling short-term supply constraints.

Logistical challenges have also emerged as shipping disruptions in key global routes have pushed up freight, insurance, and fuel costs, indirectly impacting coffee trade flows and pricing dynamics.

Weather conditions in Brazil remain another point of concern. Key growing regions have received less rainfall than usual, which could affect crop development if dryness persists.

On the inventory front, Arabica stocks tracked by exchanges have been rising, contributing to downward pressure on prices.

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Export data adds a mixed picture. Brazil reported a sharp decline in green coffee shipments in February compared to last year, alongside a broader drop in total coffee exports.

Earlier in the year, prices had already come under pressure following projections of a bumper crop in Brazil. Government and private forecasts have consistently pointed to strong production growth, especially in arabica output.

Globally, coffee supply is expected to expand further. Estimates suggest total production could reach new highs in the upcoming season, supported by gains in both Brazil and Vietnam.

Vietnam, the leading robusta producer, continues to boost exports, with shipments rising in the early months of the year. Production is also expected to increase, adding to global availability.

Meanwhile, some international data indicates only a slight dip in global exports so far this season, while overall production forecasts remain strong. However, ending stock levels are expected to tighten modestly, reflecting steady demand.

EGF Invests AED 45 Million in CarniStore

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Emirates Growth Fund (EGF) has finalized a strategic minority investment of AED 45 million in CarniStore, a premium protein provider. This transaction marks EGF’s entry into the food sector and aligns with its mandate to support the development of “National Champions” within the UAE’s business landscape.

Founded in 2018, CarniStore has established a significant presence in the premium protein market by integrating traditional butchery with digital retail operations. The capital injection is intended to facilitate industrial scaling, the development of new product verticals, and broader regional expansion.

Khalifa Al Hajeri, CEO of Emirates Growth Fund, stated, “EGF’s investment in CarniStore reflects our mandate to support high-potential UAE businesses within the ‘missing middle’ through strategic capital and active partnership. Beyond providing growth equity, we collaborate with founders to strengthen market positioning, governance, and institutional capability.”

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Fikry Boutros, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of CarniStore, noted that the partnership represents a logical progression for the company, focusing on long-term foundations and raising quality standards for proteins within the local food community.

Daniel Wanies, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of CarniStore, added: “EGF’s strategic backing allows us to scale CarniStore with intention, growing our operations and developing new products while maintaining the premium quality our customers expect.”

As a strategic minority investor, EGF will focus on enhancing CarniStore’s institutional capacity and corporate governance. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to diversifying the UAE’s economic landscape by backing high-traction, local businesses with scalable models.

Ethiopia Bolsters Global Coffee Competitiveness with Landmark Digital Handover

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ADDIS ABABA – Qahwa World

The Ethiopian coffee industry achieved a significant digital milestone on 27 March 2026, as the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) officially concluded the technical handover of the Ethiopian Coffee Traceability and Management System (ECTMS).

Developed in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) through its SUVASE project, and with technical implementation by the Ethiopian software firm Vulcan ICT, the ECTMS represents a state-of-the-art digital platform. It aims to deliver end-to-end transparency and traceability for the world’s most iconic coffee origin—home to the ancient forests that gave birth to Arabica coffee.

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  • A Digital Shield Against Stringent Global Regulations

As international sustainability requirements tighten—especially the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)—the ECTMS equips Ethiopia with a critical technological advantage. The system addresses the EUDR’s core demands for geolocation data, proof of deforestation-free production (post-31 December 2020 cutoff), and full supply chain traceability.

The system features three core functionalities:

Precision Geodata Collection: A dedicated mobile application enables field agents and farmers to capture exact GPS coordinates and plot-level details from coffee farms across the country.

Seamless Logistics Tracking: Real-time digital documentation of the entire goods flow, from farm to export, replacing outdated paper-based processes.

Read Also: Chinese Firm Huichuan to Invest in Ethiopia Coffee Processing

Advanced Deforestation Risk Analysis: Integrated mapping tools assess cultivation areas against deforestation risks, helping ensure compliance with global sustainability standards.

By generating verifiable, auditable data, the ECTMS helps European importers fulfill their due diligence obligations, safeguarding continued access for Ethiopian coffee to one of its largest and most lucrative markets.

  • Efficiency, Trust, and Farmer Empowerment

At the handover workshop, ECTA Director General H.E. Dr. Adugna Debela emphasized the evolving demands of the global coffee market.

“Trustworthy traceability is no longer optional; it is the backbone of Ethiopia’s global competitiveness,” Dr. Adugna stated. “We are committed to leveraging technology to enhance sustainability, ensuring better market access and, ultimately, increased revenue for our farmers. We extend our sincere gratitude to GIZ and Vulcan ICT for their partnership in developing this essential trust mechanism.”

Read Also: Ethiopia and China Strengthen Coffee Sector Cooperation

The ECTMS shifts Ethiopia from traditional paper-based certifications to a modern, user-friendly digital ecosystem. For the millions of smallholder farmers who form the backbone of the sector, this means their coffee’s origin, ethical production, and environmental footprint can now be reliably documented and promoted.

  • Strategic Importance in a Booming Sector

This initiative comes as Ethiopia’s coffee sector continues to post impressive gains. In the 2024/25 fiscal year, the country achieved record exports of approximately 470,000 tons, generating over USD 2.6 billion in revenue. Early performance in 2025/26 has also been strong, with ambitions targeting up to USD 3 billion in coffee earnings for the full year.

Projections for the 2025/26 marketing year estimate production at around 11.6 million 60-kg bags, with exports potentially reaching 7.8 million bags, supported by favorable conditions, tree rejuvenation programs, and policy reforms. By aligning with global expectations, the ECTMS positions Ethiopian coffee—prized for unique flavor profiles from regions like Yirgacheffe, Sidama, and Guji—to command premium prices in both specialty and mainstream segments.

  • Looking Ahead

While the system marks major progress, full-scale adoption remains a challenge due to the fragmented nature of Ethiopia’s roughly four million smallholder farms. ECTA has indicated plans to issue directives for centralizing geolocation data to avoid fragmentation.

As the EUDR enforcement deadline approaches (December 2026 for large operators), full implementation and widespread adoption across cooperatives, exporters, and regional authorities will be key to translating this technological milestone into tangible benefits for farmers and sustained growth for the national economy.

Japanese Study: Caffeic Acid in Coffee Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Cell

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GrowthKyoto – Qahwa World

A Japanese research team has identified the molecular mechanism by which caffeic acid, a polyphenol found in coffee, suppresses the growth of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells.

This discovery, published in Scientific Reports on March 5, 2026, provides a potential scientific basis for epidemiological studies that link regular coffee consumption to a reduced risk of colorectal cancer.

The Molecular Mechanism: Targeting the RPS5-Cyclin D1 Axis While previous research suggested a link between coffee and cancer prevention, the specific components and their biological functions remained unclear.

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Researchers from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine and Kansai Medical University Hospital focused on caffeic acid, which is produced when chlorogenic acid (abundant in coffee) is hydrolyzed in the intestines.

Key findings from the study include: Direct Binding to RPS5: Using nano-magnetic beads and mass spectrometry, the team identified ribosomal protein S5 (RPS5) as a direct binding target of caffeic acid. High expression of RPS5 is known to be associated with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer patients.

Inducing G1 Cell Cycle Arrest: The research demonstrated that caffeic acid blocks the function of RPS5, which in turn halts the cell cycle of cancer cells at the G1 phase, preventing them from copying their DNA and proliferating.

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Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Cyclin D1: Both the addition of caffeic acid and the suppression of RPS5 reduced the levels of cyclin D1, a protein critical for driving the cell growth cycle. The study suggests that RPS5 regulates cyclin D1 by controlling the stability of its messenger RNA (mRNA) rather than its promoter activity.

Future Therapeutic Potential Dr. Motoki Watanabe, the lead researcher, stated that these findings reveal a previously unrecognized RPS5-cyclin D1 axis targeted by caffeic acid. This insight could lead to the development of new cancer prevention strategies and treatments, such as optimized derivatives of caffeic acid that more effectively target RPS5.

Important Considerations The researchers noted that this was basic research conducted primarily on cell cultures. They cautioned that the concentrations of caffeic acid required for these effects in a laboratory setting are higher than what is typically achieved through normal coffee consumption. Additionally, since coffee contains other components like caffeine and may not suit everyone’s constitution, excessive consumption is not recommended.

Keurig Dr Pepper Seals $15.7 Billion JDE Peet’s Deal as 96% of Shares Tendered

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BURLINGTON, MA / AMSTERDAM – Qahwa World

In a move that reshapes the global coffee landscape, Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (KDP) has officially declared its multi-billion-euro takeover bid for JDE Peet’s N.V. unconditional. The announcement comes after an overwhelming majority of shareholders backed the deal, signalling the end of JDE Peet’s era as a standalone public company on the Euronext Amsterdam.

According to a joint statement released Friday, approximately 466.7 million shares were tendered during the initial offer period, representing a staggering 96.22% of the company’s total share capital. The aggregate value of the tendered shares stands at approximately €14.86 billion (approx. $15.7 billion).

You may Read: Keurig Dr Pepper Launches €31.85-Per-Share Offer for JDE Peet’s

Transaction Finalized

With the 80% minimum acceptance threshold easily surpassed and all other conditions met, the Offeror (Kodiak BidCo B.V.) has confirmed that the deal is now legally binding.

Key Dates to Watch:

  • Settlement Date: Payment to shareholders who participated in the initial offer will be made on April 1, 2026.

  • Post-Closing Acceptance Period: A final window for remaining shareholders to tender their shares will run from March 30 to April 13, 2026.

  • Delisting: JDE Peet’s and KDP will now begin the process of delisting the stock from Euronext Amsterdam “as soon as possible”.

Strategic Integration

The merger brings together KDP’s North American dominance—fuelled by the Keurig brewing system and brands like Dr Pepper and Green Mountain—with JDE Peet’s massive international footprint. JDE Peet’s, which generated nearly €10 billion in sales in 2025, operates in over 100 markets with iconic brands, including Peet’s, L’OR, and Jacobs.

“This is more than a financial transaction; it is the union of two coffee powerhouses,” noted industry analysts. “KDP is now positioned as a truly global titan in both the hot and cold beverage sectors.”

Read also: JDE Peet’s Transfers Shares to Employees Amid Keurig Dr Pepper Takeover Offer

Next Steps for Shareholders

For the 3.78% of shareholders who have not yet tendered their shares, KDP has announced it will initiate statutory buy-out proceedings to acquire 100% ownership. Those who tender during the upcoming post-closing period will receive the same offer price as the initial participants, with payments expected within five business days following the April 13 deadline.

Upon settlement on April 1, a pre-approved reshuffling of the board of directors will take effect, marking the official integration of JDE Peet’s into the KDP corporate structure.

JDE Peet’s Grants Shares Under Employee Incentive Plans

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai—Qahwa World

JDE Peet’s has granted new share-based awards and transferred shares to employees as part of its ongoing incentive programs, in line with Dutch regulatory disclosure requirements.

The company confirmed that on March 23, 2026, it granted a total of 811,205 conditional share rights to 204 participants.  These awards were issued in the form of restricted stock units and performance stock units, with no financial consideration required from employees.

Read also: Keurig Dr Pepper Launches €31.85-Per-Share Offer for JDE Peet’s

In addition, the company transferred 12,955 shares to 14 participants under its incentive plans.  These shares were also allocated without payment.

Following these transactions, JDE Peet’s stated that its total issued share capital remains unchanged at 488,178,642 shares.  Of this total, 3,144,957 shares are held as treasury stock.

The disclosure comes under applicable Dutch offer rules, which require transparency around share-related transactions during an ongoing offer process.

Read also: JDE Peet’s Transfers Shares to Employees Amid Keurig Dr Pepper Takeover Offer

The company also confirmed that it does not hold shares in the entity making the offer, and it has no indication that the offeror holds shares in JDE Peet’s.

JDE Peet’s remains one of the largest dedicated coffee companies globally, operating across more than 100 markets with a portfolio that spans major international brands and regional coffee names.

Ethiopia Strengthens Coffee Ties with China

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Addis Ababa – Qahwa World

A high-level Chinese delegation of 21 investors met with H.E.  Dr. Adugna Debela, Director General of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA), to boost trade and promote Ethiopian coffee in China.

Led by Madam Betty, Chairperson of the Ethiopia-China Friendship and Cooperation Committee, the delegation visited ECTA’s headquarters to discuss strategic frameworks for expanding Ethiopian coffee in the Chinese market.

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Key Points:

Strategic Promotion: The delegation helps introduce Ethiopian coffee to Chinese consumers via innovative marketing channels.
Rapid Market Growth: China rose from the 33rd largest buyer to the 3rd largest in just eight months.
Investor Interest: Multiple Chinese companies seek premium Ethiopian coffee directly from its origin, signaling a new phase of “Coffee Diplomacy.”

Read also: Ethiopia and China Strengthen Coffee Sector Cooperation

“China’s emergence as a top destination for our coffee is remarkable.  We value the delegation’s commitment and will provide full support for this partnership,” said Dr. Adugna.

The meeting ended with a shared commitment to deepen Ethiopia-China relations, ensuring every cup in Beijing and Shanghai carries the authentic flavor of the Ethiopian highlands.

Gostoso Coffee: Redefining Brazilian Specialty Coffee

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Dubai – Qahwa World

In recent years, Brazil has reaffirmed its position as the world’s largest coffee producer and a growing hub of innovation within the specialty coffee sector. In this evolving landscape, a new generation of Brazilian‑born brands is emerging, shifting coffee’s image from a bulk commodity to a crafted experience. Among them, Gostoso Coffee is beginning to stand out for its clarity of vision, authenticity, and long‑term direction.

  • From Dubai to the Origin: A New Chapter

Gostoso Coffee was founded in 2019 by Brazilian entrepreneur Colin James Francis, after his move to the UAE and his decision to launch a brand that would represent Brazil on the global stage. Over time, the company combined Brazilian agronomy with Emirati‑based roasting operations (Karam Food Inds., Dubai), positioning itself at the intersection of origin and innovation.

Recently, Gostoso made a strategic return to its roots by establishing a coffee plantation in Brazil, in the prestigious region of São Roque, São Paulo—internationally known as the “City of the Wine Route.” Following rigorous soil analysis, terroir selection, and assessment of climatic conditions suited to rare Arabica varieties, the company chose an estate that blends natural beauty, heritage architecture, and production potential.

The property is set in a mountainous landscape surrounded by the Atlantic Forest, with a historic headquarters built in Riga pine wood using Norman architecture. Designed to be open to the public, the farm will host visits, educational tours, and immersive experiences on coffee, origin, and the global trends shaping the world’s second‑most‑consumed beverage. This project aims to re‑establish São Paulo as a globally recognized specialty‑coffee region, echoing the state’s prominence in the 1950s and 1960s—this time with a focus on quality, rarity, and sustainability.

  • Beyond Commodity: A Global Vision Guided by Ethics

Gostoso Coffee was created to challenge the traditional power structure in coffee: to reduce the role of exploitative middlemen and protect farmers, cooperatives, and origin. From Brazil, the brand controls the entire value chain, from rare plantations to its roastery in Dubai, UAE, ensuring transparency, traceability, and fair practices at every stage.

Under the leadership of CEO Colin James Francis, recognized internationally for ethical sourcing and manufacturing excellence in the UAE, India, and Hong Kong, Gostoso supports and expands Brazilian cooperatives, helping them produce higher‑quality outputs at a larger scale using rare Arabica and Liberica varieties. With a strategic base in Dubai, the brand is positioned to scale across the Middle East, Asia, and the Far East, bringing Brazilian excellence to the world without compromise.

  • Farm and Plantation: Innovation Meets Nature

Located in a mountainous region of Brazil, the Gostoso Coffee Farm is opening new pathways in specialty production. The farm is developing Geisha Arabica, one of the world’s most exclusive coffee varieties, traditionally associated with high altitude Panama, where micro‑lots have recently reached around USD 30,000 per kg. At Gostoso, this cultivar grows under the natural shade of the Atlantic Forest, a terroir that imparts remarkable complexity, elegance, and cup identity.

Sustainability is central to the farm’s operations. Over 15% of the property is preserved as a legally protected Permanent Preservation Area (APP), in full compliance with Brazilian environmental law. The estate lies within the São Roque Atlantic Forest, a region recognized by UNESCO for its ecological value and biodiversity.

The native forest hosts species such as peroba, cedar, pau‑d’alho, mulberry, white fig, jatobá, cinnamon, and ipê, along with a rich variety of wildlife. The farm also cultivates more than 30 fruit varieties, including jabuticaba, uvaia, cacao, pecans, chestnuts, passion fruit, bananas, berries, avocado, jambo, pitanga, and mango, while maintaining beehives to support pollination of coffee plants. As the team puts it: “Nature is our alliance; we work as a cohesive unit.”

  • More Than a Farm — A Destination at Origin

Gostoso Coffee is designed to attract both national and international visitors, not only for its rare coffees but also for the natural and cultural beauty of the region. The farm offers eco‑walks, birdwatching spots, and meaningful experiences that connect guests with the land, the process, and the story behind every cup. As the estate expands, visitors will encounter an ever‑growing diversity of rare coffee varieties, all cultivated with precision and care.

  • Rare Coffee Varieties: Geisha, Arabica, and more

Geisha Arabica is one of the rarest and most celebrated coffee varieties worldwide, renowned for its extraordinary cup complexity, with delicate jasmine‑like florals, vibrant citrus notes, and subtle hints of tropical fruits. The variety gained global fame after winning the Best of Panama competition in 2004 and has since become a benchmark for excellence in specialty coffee.

Demanding cultivation, low yields, and exceptional quality have made Geisha synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. Traditionally grown in Panama, it now also flourishes at Gostoso Coffee Farm in São Roque, São Paulo. Geisha is one of seven exclusive coffee varieties cultivated at the estate, where terroir, technical precision, and passion converge to create a distinctive profile.

  • Empowering Women in Agriculture

Women are at the heart of the Gostoso story. Globally, women represent nearly 47% of the agricultural workforce, shaping farming with resilience and care. At the Gostoso Coffee Farm, 25% of the labor force consists of skilled, experienced women working across seedling production, nursery management, harvesting, and quality control.

Their presence enriches every stage of production and reinforces the brand’s mission to deliver coffee that is Gostoso—good, authentic, and deeply human. Their dedication can be tasted in every cup, from the first seedling to the final brew. As the farm grows, it does so driven by respect for people, partners, and consumers.

  • Scaling with Technology, Genetics, and Vision

Gostoso Coffee is scaling not only in size but also in scientific and technological sophistication. The farm employs state‑of‑the‑art agricultural technology, advanced agronomic methods, and rare coffee genetics to redefine the future of coffee production. The mission extends beyond the farm: it aims to reshape the geography and history of the global coffee industry, restoring São Paulo as a strategic and influential origin on the world coffee map.

This long-term project is built on innovation, sustainability, traceability, and excellence, targeting those who see coffee as more than a beverage—as a legacy. Partners and investors who share this vision are invited to co‑build a project that is timeless, scalable, and globally relevant.

  • Plantation Progress and Technical Precision

The farm recently completed a root development test 60 days after planting, with highly promising results. Seedlings showed over 15 cm of root growth, with strong, healthy structures and excellent formation. This confirms that soil preparation, planting depth, spacing, and fertilization were executed with precision.

Deep root systems enhance drought resistance, nutrient uptake, and uniform growth, laying a solid foundation for future productivity. Every stage is closely monitored to ensure quality from the very beginning—coffee is planted today but harvested with strategy tomorrow.

  • Conclusion: Brazilian Coffee in Motion

Gostoso Coffee reflects a broader shift in the specialty coffee sector. Consumers are increasingly interested in origin, traceability, and environmental impact, and brands that articulate these values clearly gain a competitive edge—even before full operational maturity. The specialty market remains highly demanding, with traditional regions such as Sul de Minas, Cerrado Mineiro, and Alta Mogiana having built their reputations over decades. Entering this space requires both a compelling narrative and consistent delivery and transparency.

Initiatives like Gostoso Coffee demonstrate that Brazilian coffee is evolving — and that the future of the industry will be shaped not only by the quality of the bean but also by the quality of the story that accompanies it.

As a result of this journey, the team behind Gostoso Coffee launched Tawa Arabic Coffee in 2026 at the Museum of Coffee in Dubai, UAE—a new chapter that bridges Brazilian excellence with the rich heritage of Arabic coffee culture.

 

Brazilian farmer aims to sell rare coffee for nearly $20,000 per bag

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

A fourth-generation Brazilian coffee farmer is aiming to redefine the upper limits of specialty coffee pricing, with plans to sell one of the world’s rarest varieties—eugenioides—for nearly $20,000 per bag, roughly 50 times the price of conventional arabica beans.

Luiz Paulo Dias Pereira Filho is expanding production of Coffea eugenioides, a little-known species native to East Africa and one of the genetic parents of arabica. Grown on what he says is Brazil’s only dedicated plantation of the variety, the crop represents a niche but fast-emerging segment of the luxury coffee market. Pereira Filho expects his upcoming harvest to generate around 1 million reais (about $190,000) for just 10 standard 60-kg bags.

You may read: Brazil’s Robusta Coffee Expands as Climate Hits Global Crops

What sets eugenioides apart is its cup profile. The coffee is naturally very low in caffeine—often close to decaf levels—and known for its pronounced sweetness, delicate body, and absence of bitterness. These traits make it highly attractive to specialty buyers seeking unique sensory experiences rather than traditional strength or intensity.

The farmer has already secured interest from international buyers in Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, and other high-end markets. In 2025, he sold three bags for 90,000 reais (approximately $17,000) each, underscoring growing global demand for rare and experimental coffees, even as broader arabica prices have softened to around $400 per bag.

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Industry experts say the trajectory of eugenioides mirrors the early rise of geisha coffee, which transformed from obscurity into one of the most expensive and sought-after varieties in the world. According to the Specialty Coffee Association, scarcity, traceability, and distinctive flavor profiles are increasingly driving value in the premium segment, where consumers are willing to pay significantly more for exclusivity.

However, scaling production remains a major challenge. Eugenioides plants are fragile, highly sensitive to climate variations, and have not undergone the same level of genetic improvement as Arabica or Robusta. As a result, yields are extremely low—about two bags per hectare, compared to 20 or more for Arabica under standard conditions. Pereira Filho currently cultivates just five hectares, limiting total output and reinforcing the coffee’s rarity.

Read also: Brazil’s Specialty Coffee Sector Gains Global Momentum

The broader context also supports rising interest in such niche products. Climate change is putting pressure on traditional coffee-growing regions, pushing producers and researchers to explore alternative species like eugenioides that may offer different resilience traits or flavor opportunities. At the same time, the global specialty coffee market continues to expand, with consumers increasingly valuing origin, processing methods, and unique varietals.

While global production of eugenioides remains largely undocumented, only a handful of farms worldwide are believed to be experimenting with commercial cultivation. For Pereira Filho, who has over two decades of experience in specialty coffee, the strategy is clear: focus on quality, rarity, and storytelling to position eugenioides as a true luxury product.

If successful, his efforts could signal the emergence of a new ultra-premium category in coffee—where scarcity and sensory distinction command prices once reserved for fine wine or rare spirits.

CQI CEO Michael Sheridan Highlights Strong Q1 2026 Momentum

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai — Qahwa World

Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) CEO Michael Sheridan has shared an inspiring update with the global coffee community, showcasing a highly active and productive first quarter of 2026 focused on education, innovation, and international outreach.

In his message, Sheridan noted: “It is hard to believe March is almost over. The first quarter of the year has gone by in a flash, partly because we have been so busy improving and expanding our offerings to better serve you and advance our mission.”

You may read: Michael Sheridan in an Exclusive Interview with Qahwa World

  • Post-Harvest Processing Program Expands Globally

A key highlight is the bi-annual Post-Harvest Processing Expert course, now training 25 outstanding coffee professionals from around the world. CQI’s PHP educators have already delivered content in 14 countries this year, with more activities planned.

The organization is also completing a major review and update of its professional course curriculum with input from seasoned instructors while developing new content to cover a wider range of topics.
New Initiatives Launched in Q1

You may like: Coffee Quality Institute CEO Delivers Key Message to Global Coffee Community

  • CQI introduced two significant programs this quarter:

The CQI Insider program, offering dedicated members exclusive access to expert insights and networking.

The Matching Grant program is designed to double the impact of project investments through partnership funding.

Sheridan also highlighted recent in-person engagements with the community in Dubai, Addis Ababa, and Tampa.

  • Ambitious Plans Ahead

The momentum continues into the rest of 2026, with two new initiatives scheduled for rollout in Q2 and Q3, plus upcoming travels to San Diego, Bangkok, Lima, Brussels, and other destinations.
“I look forward to seeing you!” Sheridan concluded.

Read Also:Coffee Quality Institute Launches New CQI Insider Membership Program

  • Advancing Coffee Quality Worldwide

These developments reinforce CQI’s mission to elevate coffee quality and support producers through world-class education and impactful partnerships. Under Michael Sheridan’s leadership, the institute continues to strengthen its role as a global leader in coffee processing knowledge and professional development.

The full message is available to CQI community members, with more details on courses and programs on the official CQI website.

Read this story also: Coffee Quality Institute Announces 2026 Global Coffee Fund Details