Category: News

Latte Art Takes Center Stage in San Diego

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The global specialty coffee community is preparing for a vibrant mix of creativity, competition, and connection as World of Coffee San Diego returns to the San Diego Convention Center from April 10 to 12. This edition marks a new chapter for the event in North America after three decades under the name Specialty Coffee Expo.

At the center of attention is the 2026 World Latte Art Championship, one of the most respected stages for barista craftsmanship. Now in its twentieth year, the competition turns everyday lattes into detailed works of art, bringing together leading talents from across the world.

  • Where coffee meets creativity

The championship is known for its fast pace and demanding format. Baristas are judged not only on technical skill but also on creativity and composure under pressure. Every detail matters, from symmetry and contrast to originality and presentation.

The event unfolds across two main experiences:

  • The Art Bar

Here, visitors can watch baristas up close as they create intricate designs using free pouring, etching, and other techniques. The setting is informal and interactive, with standout drinks often chosen through audience voting.

You may Read: World of Coffee San Diego 2026: Last Chance for Early Bird Rates

  • The Main Stage

This is where the competition intensifies. In the preliminary round, each competitor has 11 minutes to prepare six drinks. These include two sets of matching free pour lattes and two matching designer patterns. The top six move on to the final, where they repeat the challenge at an even higher level. One barista will leave with the title of 2026 World Latte Art Champion.

This year’s lineup features national and regional champions, each bringing their own style and interpretation shaped by their local coffee culture.

  • More than a competition

While latte art draws large crowds, the event itself goes far beyond the championship. World of Coffee is the largest B2B specialty coffee gathering in North America, offering a wide look at the industry.

The exhibition hall will host hundreds of companies presenting equipment, green coffee, brewing tools, packaging solutions, and new technologies shaping the future of coffee.

Visitors can also expect:

A full education program with more than 60 lectures and over 30 workshops
Opportunities to connect with roasters, café owners, and suppliers
Features such as the Coffee Design Awards, public cuppings, brew bars, and the SCA Lecture Series

Access to the event requires registration, with trade badges needed for entry to the show floor and competitions. Organizers have also introduced early booking offers and hotel packages through official channels.

Set along San Diego’s waterfront, the event combines business with atmosphere. The city’s growing café culture adds another layer to the experience, giving visitors a taste of both global trends and local flavor.

As April approaches, San Diego is preparing to welcome the world of coffee. For a few days, every cup poured will carry a story, and every design will reflect the skill behind it.

Moderate Coffee Consumption May Reduce Dementia Risk

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Dubai – Qahwa World

A comprehensive new study suggests that regular consumption of caffeinated coffee and tea may help protect against dementia and support cognitive health over the long term.

The research, published in JAMA on February 9, 2026, analyzed data from over 131,000 participants followed for up to 43 years. The study included women from the Nurses’ Health Study and men from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, excluding individuals who had cancer, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia at the start. During the follow-up period, 11,033 cases of dementia were documented.

The study found that higher intake of caffeinated coffee was linked to a significantly lower risk of developing dementia. Participants in the highest consumption group—roughly two to three cups per day—experienced about an 18% lower risk compared with those in the lowest intake group. Similarly, moderate tea consumption—one to two cups per day—was associated with comparable benefits. Decaffeinated coffee, however, showed no significant impact on dementia risk or cognitive function.

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Researchers also observed improvements in cognitive performance among caffeinated coffee and tea drinkers. In the Nurses’ Health Study cohort, higher coffee intake correlated with slightly higher scores on the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status and global cognition assessments. Subjective cognitive decline was also less common among those with moderate caffeinated beverage intake.

Dr. Dylan Wint, a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic, who was not involved in the study, noted that these findings reinforce the potential role of caffeine in brain health. “Caffeine may help reduce the accumulation of amyloid-beta, a protein implicated in Alzheimer’s disease, and it may also have other neuroprotective effects,” he explained.

While the study highlights promising associations, researchers and experts caution that more work is needed to confirm causality. Dr. Wint emphasized that maintaining brain health also requires a holistic approach, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental engagement.

The study adds to a growing body of evidence that moderate consumption of caffeinated coffee and tea could be a simple, enjoyable strategy to support long-term cognitive health.

A Coffee Journey Across Europe’s Best Cities

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In its latest issue, National Geographic published a beautiful report on Europe’s best cafés, titled: “Sip your way across Europe’s best cities for coffee.”

The magazine begins its report by saying: “From Turin’s distinctively named coffees to Vienna’s historic salons, Europe offers a rich experience for coffee lovers, blending long-standing traditions with modern brewing techniques.”

According to the magazine, coffee may have originated in Ethiopia, but Europe is where it matured culturally. It traveled from Africa to Yemen during the Middle Ages, reached Turkey in the 16th century, and spread across the continent in the 17th century through Ottoman diplomats and merchants coming to Venice. Cafés soon flourished, becoming social hubs for artists and thinkers.

The magazine emphasizes that coffee remains an essential part of European life today, where historic cafés coexist with modern specialty coffee roasters, creating a diverse and ever-evolving scene.
It then highlights seven cities where coffee lovers can explore this world, as follows:

  • 1. Vienna

Vienna is one of Europe’s foremost coffee cities, known for its opulent cafés dating back to the 19th century, designed in architectural styles such as Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque. The city’s café culture has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Start with a Wiener Melange at Café Frauenhuber, Vienna’s oldest café. Then head to Café Central to try an Einspänner, an espresso topped with whipped cream, in surroundings of marble columns and vaulted ceilings.

For dessert lovers, Café Demel offers a variety of pastries and Kaiserschmarrn served with flavored coffee. Café Landtmann, once frequented by Sigmund Freud, is famous for its apple strudel served with a Brauner—espresso with milk on the side. For a modern experience, coffee experts offer workshops and serve cold brews and coffee cocktails.

  • 2. Copenhagen

Copenhagen is known for its light roasting style common in Nordic countries, where beans are roasted at lower temperatures for shorter durations, preserving fruity flavors and natural acidity.

Visitors can learn about these techniques in local coffee roastery workshops. Specialty cafés offer a wide range of coffee types and brewing methods.

In cafés that combine bakery and roastery, pastries are a key part of the experience. Try an almond croissant or custard-filled pastry with drinks such as espresso tonics or cold brews.

  • 3. Paris

Paris would be unimaginable without its cafés, which are integral to its cultural and literary history.

Left Bank cafés are among the most famous destinations, frequented by renowned writers and philosophers. Here, you can order a café au lait, a traditional coffee made with brewed coffee instead of espresso.

The city’s oldest cafés evoke the Enlightenment era and are associated with major thinkers. Modern specialty cafés offer high-quality, locally roasted beans for coffee enthusiasts.

  • 4. Istanbul

Coffee culture in Istanbul dates back to the 16th century when the Ottoman Sultan embraced it and established the office of the Chief Coffee Maker. This tradition has been listed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Turkish coffee is made from very finely ground beans and slowly brewed in a small pot, giving it a thick and rich texture. It is served unfiltered, leaving grounds that are later used for fortune-telling.

For a traditional experience, visit historic cafés serving coffee with Eastern sweets. Modern cafés offer innovative drinks, including cold brews and spiced coffee beverages.

  • 5. Madrid

Café con leche is Madrid’s defining coffee drink, a 50/50 mix of espresso and hot milk.

Historic cafés dating back to the 19th century coexist with artistic venues reflecting the city’s past.

A distinctive feature of Spanish coffee is the torrefacto roasting method, where sugar is added during roasting, producing dark beans with a smoky, caramelized flavor. For purer coffee, specialty cafés offer beans roasted using modern methods.

  • 6. Stockholm

In Stockholm, coffee is part of a daily tradition known as fika, a social coffee and cake break.

Popular options include cinnamon rolls, cardamom buns, and sponge cakes filled with cream and jam. The rise of specialty coffee has refined the fika experience, with cafés sourcing carefully selected beans and roasting them in small batches.

Some roasters provide detailed brewing guides, while bakeries offer fresh bread ideal for breakfast.

  • 7. Trieste

Trieste is one of Italy’s most important coffee cities. As a major port in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, coffee trade thrived after taxes were abolished in the 18th century.

Its historic cafés feature luxurious décor and classic atmospheres reflecting the city’s heritage.

Trieste also has its own coffee terminology: espresso served in a small glass with frothed milk is called “Capo in B,” while a simple espresso is known as “Nero.” Coffee is often paired with traditional local pastries to complete the experience.

KitKat Heist Turns Into a Global Story Captivating Millions

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Dubai – Qahwa World

In one of the most unusual cargo theft incidents in Europe recently, a truck carrying more than 413,000 KitKat bars, with a total weight of nearly 12 tons, disappeared while en route from a factory in central Italy to Poland. The incident occurred on March 26, 2026, and neither the truck nor its contents have been recovered so far.

Swiss giant Nestlé, the owner of the KitKat brand, confirmed the incident in an official statement released late last week. The company said the shipment included a new range of products, among them a special edition inspired by Formula 1, with chocolate bars shaped like miniature race cars. No injuries were reported, and authorities have yet to disclose details about how the theft was carried out, though it appears to have been a highly organized operation targeting the truck on a European highway.

Instead of issuing a routine statement, Nestlé chose a different approach. On April 1, 2026, the company launched an interactive online tool called the “KitKat Tracker,” emphasizing that it was not an April Fool’s joke. The tool allows consumers to enter the eight-digit code printed on the back of any KitKat wrapper to check whether it belongs to the stolen batch. If a match is found, users are encouraged to report it so the information can be shared with authorities.

This move significantly changed consumer behavior. Buying chocolate is no longer a routine act—it now involves checking the wrapper and verifying the code. Some consumers even share their results on social media, creating widespread engagement without a traditional advertising campaign. Nestlé also noted that cargo theft has become an increasing issue in Europe, but it used this incident as an opportunity to connect with the public in a creative way.

As a result, what could have been a reputational setback turned into a widely discussed story. Media outlets covered the incident extensively, while social platforms filled with user-generated content and reactions. Although the stolen shipment could still appear in unofficial markets, the tracking tool helps make identification easier. Nestlé stated that market supply would not be significantly affected, while the media buzz has made the product even more appealing.

From a business perspective, this case stands out as a strong example of crisis management. Rather than damaging the brand, the incident strengthened consumer engagement. The product itself has not changed, but its story has become far more compelling.

As of April 4, 2026, the truck and its 413,000 chocolate bars remain missing, with investigations ongoing across several European countries. Meanwhile, consumers continue to take part in the story—buying, checking, and following updates.

In the end, this is more than just a chocolate theft. It is a story of how a major company turned an unexpected crisis into an engaging narrative that captured global attention.

Vietnam Sets the Stage for a Record-Breaking Coffee Export Year

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Vietnam has entered 2026 with remarkable momentum, signaling a potential record year for coffee exports. Early data from Vietnam Customs points to a rapid acceleration in shipments of green coffee, processed products, and various bean varieties, surpassing activity from the same period last year. Export values have also climbed sharply, solidifying coffee as one of Vietnam’s top agricultural earners and highlighting the country’s growing influence in the global coffee market.

The surge is driven not only by higher volumes but also by expanding international demand. Key markets, including Germany, Spain, Italy, Algeria, and Japan, have reported stronger imports in the early weeks of the year. Vietnam’s coffee is increasingly recognized across Europe, North Africa, and Asia as an essential supplier, with both import value and volume showing steady growth.

Within Vietnam’s export portfolio, robusta remains the backbone of the trade, generating substantial earnings. Arabica, though a smaller portion of production, has seen notable gains due to rising global interest in specialty origins and Vietnam’s strategic focus on diversifying its offerings. Meanwhile, processed coffee products are showing strong performance, reflecting a shift toward value-added exports. Industry experts view this as evidence that Vietnam is moving beyond commodity-based trade toward a more vertically integrated model capable of competing in premium markets.

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The strong start to 2026 builds on an already exceptional 2025, when Vietnam achieved its highest-ever coffee export volumes and revenues. The Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association predicts that the current harvest could exceed these records, aided by improved growing conditions, increased investment in farm inputs, and higher market prices—all contributing to stronger yields and production potential.

International observers echo this optimism. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) projects substantial growth in Vietnam’s coffee production, citing farmers’ responsiveness to global price increases and enhanced crop management practices. USDA forecasts also point to rising exports across multiple categories, including roasted and soluble coffee, with Asian markets expected to drive significant demand.

According to the USDA’s December revision, Vietnam’s 2025/26 coffee exports are expected to reach 27.3 million bags GBE, up 8% from the previous year. Early customs data indicate actual shipments of green beans, roasted, and soluble coffee may already be higher, supported by increased sales to international tourists.

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Global trends, however, are shaping a more competitive landscape. Analysts warn that supply may increase across traditional coffee-producing regions, potentially pressuring prices. Vietnam’s efficiency, productivity, and diversified product offerings, along with investments in quality control and traceability, position its coffee sector to navigate these shifts with resilience.

Taken together, the early 2026 developments suggest Vietnam is entering a defining phase in its coffee-export story. Strong demand, recognition in global markets, expansion into processed coffee, and robust domestic and international support all point to a landmark year ahead. If these trends continue, Vietnam is poised to reinforce its position as a global coffee powerhouse while setting new benchmarks for high-volume, value-added exports.

Black coffee without sugar reduces chronic inflammation

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Spanish cardiologist Aurelio Rojas, known for his active role in promoting a healthy lifestyle, provided a detailed answer to the common question: “Is coffee good or bad for the heart and the body in general?”

The Spanish newspaper «Deia» reported that Rojas said the belief that “any type of coffee is beneficial” is a myth. Not every cup of coffee provides the same benefits. The real value of coffee lies in its content of antioxidants and polyphenols, compounds that play a key role in reducing chronic inflammation in the body.

Chronic inflammation is considered one of the most dangerous silent factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, obesity, liver diseases, as well as depression and neurodegenerative disorders. Here, black coffee without sugar stands out as an ideal choice.

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Rojas said: “It is best to drink coffee without any additives, as this allows you to fully benefit from its antioxidant properties.” He considers plain black coffee without sugar to be the most beneficial option, as its polyphenols work at full capacity to reduce inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), and help protect blood vessels.

However, the doctor is not strict about this, noting that “milk can sometimes be added.” Drinks such as latte or cappuccino are not forbidden, but they are less potent than black coffee in terms of antioxidant strength. Therefore, they can be enjoyed occasionally, while returning to black coffee for maximum benefit.

  • What else does Rojas say about coffee?

The data he relies on, supported by many scientific studies, suggest that moderate coffee consumption can:

  • Help control weight and burn fat
  • Not raise blood pressure, contrary to common belief
  • Reduce the risk of heart attacks, arrhythmias, and heart failure
  • Improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes
  • Benefit the liver and reduce the risk of fatty liver disease and cirrhosis
  • Improve mood and reduce the likelihood of depression
  • Enhance energy, physical performance, and brain health, contributing to the prevention of diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s

You can also read: 43 Years of Data: How Coffee Affects the Brain and Memory

As for the optimal amount, Rojas recommends about 3 cups per day. For beginners or those sensitive to caffeine, it is advised to start with 1–2 cups and gradually increase. It is preferable not to exceed 4 cups per day to avoid insomnia, nervousness, or rapid heartbeat.

  • A simple rule for coffee lovers

If you want to get the maximum benefit for heart health, blood vessels, and longevity, the advice is simple: black coffee without sugar or sweeteners, preferably natural rather than instant.

Coffee with milk can be consumed occasionally, but it is best not to make it a daily habit.

Starbucks and Boyu Capital Finalize Joint Venture to Drive Growth in China

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April 2, 2026 – Seattle – Starbucks Coffee Company has completed its joint venture agreement with investment firm Boyu Capital, marking a key step in its long-term strategy to expand in China.

The deal, first announced in November 2025, underscores Starbucks’ confidence in China as one of its most important growth markets. The partnership is designed to strengthen the company’s presence, improve local market adaptation, and enhance the customer experience while maintaining brand standards.

Under the agreement, funds managed by Boyu Capital now hold a 60 percent stake in Starbucks’ retail operations in China. Starbucks retains a 40 percent share and continues to own the brand and intellectual property, licensing them to the joint venture.

You may read: Starbucks Returns to Growth for the First Time in Two Years

The new entity currently oversees around 8,000 coffee shops, which will gradually transition to a licensed operating model. Over time, the partners aim to expand the network to as many as 20,000 locations.

Company leadership highlighted that combining Starbucks’ global brand strength with Boyu Capital’s local expertise is expected to support expansion into new cities, reach more customers, and reinforce the company’s position in a highly competitive market.

The strategy will place strong emphasis on local adaptation, including tailored beverage offerings, food options, digital engagement, and store formats designed to meet the needs of diverse communities across China.

The partnership is also expected to improve operational efficiency, support faster expansion, and strengthen long-term profitability.

With the transaction now complete, both parties are moving into the operational phase of the joint venture, focusing on growth, innovation, and delivering a consistent coffee experience across the Chinese market.

Rising Heat Threatens the Future of Coffee

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A new analysis by Climate Central (an independent group of scientists and communicators that studies and reports on climate change and its impacts on people’s lives, operating as a policy-neutral nonprofit) is raising a clear warning for the global coffee industry.

Data shows that coffee-growing regions across Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia are experiencing rising temperatures at an accelerated pace, faster than at any time in the modern agricultural era. An analysis of daily temperatures across coffee-producing areas reveals that plants are increasingly exposed to heat levels beyond their natural limits, placing significant pressure on yields, bean quality, and farm sustainability.

The findings indicate that extreme heat events exceeding critical thresholds for coffee plants are becoming more frequent in major producing countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Indonesia. These conditions are negatively affecting both major types of coffee, including those known for higher quality and those considered more resilient, impacting both quantity and quality of production.

This trend is occurring alongside broader climate instability, including irregular rainfall patterns and longer periods of drought. Farmers are reporting noticeable disruptions in flowering seasons, faster development cycles, and sudden weather shifts that damage flowers and coffee cherries. These changes make it increasingly difficult to predict key production stages and raise the risks of lower yields and soil stress.

 

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The impact is not limited to farms. It is also affecting global markets, where reduced harvests have led to sharp price volatility. These conditions have contributed to elevated coffee prices in recent periods, driven by tighter supply and growing uncertainty in the market.

The analysis also points to a possible shift in coffee-growing geography, with production gradually moving toward higher elevations or areas previously considered unsuitable. While this may create new economic opportunities, it also poses environmental risks, particularly deforestation as farming expands into cooler and ecologically sensitive regions.

At the same time, experts stress the importance of adaptation. Proposed solutions include the use of shade trees, improving soil health, adjusting farming practices, and supporting smallholder farmers to strengthen their resilience to rising temperatures. There is also a strong emphasis on adopting long-term strategies rather than short-term fixes.

The message is clear. Coffee-growing regions around the world are entering a period of profound climate change. Adaptation is no longer optional. It is becoming a decisive factor in determining the future of coffee production and its sustainability in the years ahead.

Sharp Rise in Coffee Prices in Russia

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A cup of coffee in Russia is no longer just a simple daily habit, it has become a growing expense that consumers are clearly beginning to feel. Within just one year, the equation has changed: the same amount of money that once covered five cups of coffee now barely pays for four.

Data indicates a noticeable increase in coffee prices across all categories. Ground coffee has risen by around 20%, while coffee beans have increased by approximately 16%. Instant coffee has also gone up, with the price of a small jar climbing from about 350 to 400 rubles.

This surge is not driven by local factors alone, but reflects broader global shifts. Unstable weather conditions in major producing countries such as Brazil and Vietnam have reduced output, as droughts and frost have negatively impacted harvests.

At the same time, supply chains are under pressure due to higher transportation costs and ongoing geopolitical tensions, directly affecting the cost of coffee imports. In Russia, these pressures are compounded by the weakening of the local currency, making imports even more expensive.

You may read: 70% of Russians drink coffee daily

Additionally, businesses are facing rising operational costs, including taxes, energy prices, rent, and transportation. All of these factors ultimately feed into the final price paid by consumers.

Meanwhile, global demand for coffee continues to grow. [conclusion] Market estimates suggest that coffee consumption could increase by about one-third over the current decade, adding further pressure on supply and keeping prices elevated.

Given these conditions, analysts do not expect a significant decline in prices in the near term. Instead, prices are likely to continue rising at a moderate pace, potentially increasing by an additional 10–20% depending on the type and quality of coffee.

In the end, coffee is no longer just a stable, everyday commodity. it has become a reflection of broader changes in the global economy, from climate challenges to shifting supply chains and trade dynamics.

Dollar Strength and Brazil Crop Pressure Coffee Prices

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Coffee prices moved lower as a stronger dollar and expectations of a record Brazilian crop continued to weigh on the market, while a mix of supply, weather, and trade factors shaped overall sentiment.

May arabica coffee fell by 0.95 points, or 0.32%, while May robusta declined by 48 points, or 1.36%, reflecting pressure linked to currency strength and improving supply expectations.

The outlook for Brazil’s next crop remains a central driver. Marex Group projected the country’s 2026 and 2027 coffee production at a record 75.9 million bags, exceeding Sucafina’s estimate of 75.4 million bags, which represents a 15.5% increase year on year. Earlier in the month, StoneX raised its forecast to 75.3 million bags, up from a previous estimate of 70.7 million bags.

Despite this pressure, tight supplies of robusta coffee provided some support. Inventories monitored by the exchange fell to 4,093 lots, the lowest level in three and a half months. In contrast, arabica inventories rose to 585,621 bags, marking a six and a quarter month high and adding further downward pressure on prices.

Global logistics disruptions added complexity to the market. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has affected shipping flows, increasing freight rates, insurance costs, and fuel expenses, raising costs for importers and roasters while tightening supply chains.

Weather conditions in Brazil also played a role. Rainfall in Minas Gerais, the country’s largest arabica-producing region, reached 11.7 millimeters last week, or 47% of the historical average, according to Somar Meteorologia. Below-normal rainfall typically supports prices, though this effect has been offset by broader supply expectations.

Trade data provided mixed signals. Brazil’s green coffee exports in February fell by 27% year on year to 2.3 million bags, according to Cecafe. Meanwhile, the country’s Trade Ministry reported that total coffee exports declined by 17.4% over the same period to 142,000 metric tons, offering some underlying support.

Earlier this year, coffee prices had already faced significant pressure. In February, arabica dropped to a 16.25-month low as expectations of a large Brazilian crop strengthened the global supply outlook. Brazil’s crop agency Conab said production in 2026 is expected to rise by 17.2% year on year to a record 66.2 million bags, including a 23.2% increase in arabica to 44.1 million bags and a 6.3% rise in robusta to 22.1 million bags.

At the global level, Rabobank projected that coffee production will reach a record 180 million bags in the 2026 and 2027 season, up by about 8 million bags from the previous year.

Vietnam, the world’s largest producer of robusta coffee, added to bearish sentiment. The country reported a 14% increase in exports during the first two months of 2026 to 366,000 metric tons. Exports for 2025 rose by 17.5% to 1.58 million metric tons, while production for the 2025 and 2026 season is expected to increase by 6% to a four-year high of 29.4 million bags.

Additional data from the International Coffee Organization showed that global coffee exports for the current marketing year edged down by 0.3% to 138.658 million bags.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agriculture Service projected that global coffee production for the 2025 and 2026 season will increase by 2% to a record 178.848 million bags. The report also indicated a 4.7% decline in arabica production to 95.515 million bags and a 10.9% increase in robusta output to 83.333 million bags.

The agency expects Brazil’s production for the same season to fall by 3.1% to 63 million bags, while Vietnam’s output is forecast to rise by 6.2% to 30.8 million bags. Ending stocks are projected to decline by 5.4% to 20.148 million bags, down from 21.307 million bags in the previous season.

Together, these factors highlight a market caught between rising global supply expectations and ongoing logistical disruptions, weather concerns, and shifting inventory levels, leaving coffee prices under continued pressure.

Brazil Breeds New Coffee to Face Climate Threat

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A recent report published by Reuters highlights growing efforts by Brazilian researchers to safeguard the future of arabica coffee as climate pressures intensify worldwide.

At the Campinas Agronomy Institute in southeastern Brazil, agronomist Oliveiro Guerreiro Filho is working among a diverse collection of coffee plants that differs sharply from the uniform rows seen across most commercial farms. The site brings together a wide range of species, including 15 rare and non-commercial varieties such as racemosa, liberica and stenophylla.

Researchers believe these lesser-known species may hold the genetic traits needed to strengthen arabica, which remains the most widely consumed coffee in the world.

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Scientists warn that arabica is increasingly vulnerable to rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns. Production in key countries, including Brazil, is expected to face mounting pressure in the coming decades.

According to a report by Rabobank, up to 20 percent of current arabica-growing areas could become unsuitable for cultivation by 2050.

In response, researchers are working to introduce genetic material from more resilient species into arabica plants. The goal is to develop new varieties that can better tolerate heat, drought and disease.

Liberica has attracted particular attention due to its ability to withstand hotter and drier conditions. Farmers in Southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia and Malaysia, have already begun testing the species on a small scale.

Jason Liew, founder of a coffee plantation in Malaysia’s Johor state, said liberica performs well in high temperatures and shows strong resistance to disease.

Brazilian researchers are focusing on transferring such traits into arabica, given its dominant position in global markets.

Guerreiro Filho said the institute has spent years working to transfer drought-tolerance genes from racemosa into arabica in an effort to produce more resilient plants.

The process is long and complex. It involves cross-breeding and exposing new hybrids to harsh conditions to identify the strongest varieties. This work can take between 20 and 30 years.

You may like to read: Coffee Pulp in Brazil: When the Coffee Cherry Refuses to Be Waste

Beyond climate resilience, researchers are also testing hybrids for improved resistance to pests and diseases while maintaining quality. Some crosses have shown stronger resistance to coffee rust, while others perform better against leaf miner larvae.

Rodolfo Oliveira of Brazil’s agricultural research agency emphasized that working with alternative coffee species is essential, noting that arabica has a very narrow genetic base, which increases its vulnerability to environmental threats.

As climate challenges continue to grow, efforts like those underway in Campinas may play a critical role in securing the future of coffee production.

Keurig Dr Pepper and JDE Peet’s: What Comes After the Deal Completion?

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The completion of Keurig Dr Pepper’s acquisition of JDE Peet’s is no longer the story itself. The real focus now shifts to what this deal means for the future of the global coffee industry.

With the transaction valued at approximately $18 billion now finalized, attention is turning to how this combined entity will reshape competition across more than 100 markets worldwide. The deal brings together a strong single-serve coffee platform in North America with a broad international footprint spanning multiple coffee segments.

Keurig Dr Pepper acquired 96.22% of JDE Peet’s shares at €31.85 per share, representing a total consideration of about €14.86 billion. The offer saw strong shareholder participation, with more than 466 million shares tendered by the close of the acceptance period on March 27, 2026.

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Having surpassed the 95% ownership threshold, the company is moving toward delisting JDE Peet’s from the Amsterdam exchange by the end of April, with the possibility of further steps to fully acquire the remaining shares.

A New Global Coffee Giant

This combination goes beyond a traditional merger. It creates a business expected to generate nearly $16 billion in annual revenue within a global coffee market valued at around $400 billion.

The new entity brings together a wide portfolio of well-known brands, including Jacobs, Douwe Egberts, Peet’s, L’OR, and Senseo. This positions it to compete across all segments—from roast and ground coffee to single-serve systems and premium offerings—covering a broad range of consumer preferences and price points.

Strategic Separation: Coffee and Beverages

One of the most significant next steps is the planned separation into two independent companies by the end of 2026.

The first will be a dedicated global coffee company, built to expand its international presence while leveraging brand strength, innovation, and local market expertise.

Read also: KDP Acquires JDE Peet’s, Names Oliveira Coffee CEO

The second will focus on refreshment beverages in North America, generating more than $11 billion in revenue and built on a portfolio of established brands across soft drinks, energy, and functional beverages.

This strategic split is designed to give each business greater operational focus and flexibility, allowing them to pursue growth strategies tailored to their respective markets.

Leadership and Integration Focus

Rafael Oliveira will lead the coffee business during this transition, bringing extensive international experience in consumer goods. Tim Cofer will lead the beverage-focused company following the separation.

Integration efforts are centered on delivering approximately $400 million in cost synergies over three years, alongside strengthening innovation capabilities and product development.

Financing Structure and Financial Outlook

The transaction was financed through a combination of new debt, preferred equity investment, industrial partnerships, assumption of existing liabilities, and available cash.

The deal is expected to be around 10% accretive to earnings per share in the first full year after closing, with combined net leverage estimated at approximately 4.5 times.

A Turning Point for the Coffee Industry

This transaction comes at a time when the global coffee sector faces ongoing supply challenges and shifting consumer preferences toward higher-quality and more diverse offerings.

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

Against this backdrop, the combined company is positioned to accelerate innovation, expand across channels, and strengthen its presence in fast-growing segments.

Integration is already underway, with a focus on operational efficiency and ensuring a smooth transition for employees, customers, and partners.

The completion of the deal marks the beginning of a new phase—one that could significantly reshape the structure and competitive dynamics of the global coffee industry.