Category: News

Global Coffee Market Roadmap—January 2026

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – QAHWA

January 2026 was not merely the start of a new calendar year for the International Coffee Organization (ICO); it served as a critical testing ground for the resilience of global supply chains against dual shocks: climatic in the primary production origin (Brazil) and logistical in vital waterways. The ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) averaged 296.89 US cents/lb, a 2.6% decrease from December 2025. While this figure may appear as a slight retreat, a deep dive into daily market movements reveals a state of “silent boiling” that culminated in a sharp price collapse in the final three days of the month, ending a long period of relative stability since late 2025.

  • I. Price Psychology and the “Minas Gerais” Effect

Prices entered January in a state of “cautious balance” (range-bound), lacking clear directional catalysts. Prices fluctuated within a narrow band, interpreted by analysts as being high enough to keep farmers financially satisfied but not low enough to trigger aggressive stock liquidations. However, this calm was shattered by two opposing factors:

Currency Impact and Hedging (Early Month): In the first week, around January 6th, the indicator rose by 3.2%. This increase was driven not by supply shortages, but by the strength of the Brazilian Real. The positive correlation between the Real’s strength and global coffee prices is a classic driver; a stronger local currency reduces export incentives for Brazilian farmers who then prefer selling in the domestic market (CEPEA index), which offered attractive premiums over international prices, creating temporary upward pressure.

The Saving Rain Shock (End of Month): A dramatic shift occurred between January 27th and 30th, with the market losing over 21 cents in a flash. Eyes were glued to weather maps over Minas Gerais, the heart of Brazil’s coffee production. Reports of heavy, consistent rainfall dissipated the “risk premium” previously added by traders fearing drought. This precipitation not only improved the current crop’s condition but provided strong positive signals for the 2026/2027 season, prompting investment funds and speculators to liquidate long positions, causing the indicator to drop to 283.02 cents.

  • 2. Structural Shifts in Demand (Robusta as the New Leader)

The report reveals a significant economic phenomenon: diverging performance among the four main coffee groups. While Arabica varieties suffered sharp declines—up to 4.5% in the “Other Milds” category—Robusta was the only group to achieve positive growth (1.0%), stabilizing at 192.52 cents. This divergence is no coincidence; it is the result of a “structural” shift in the global coffee industry. Amid rising global living costs, major international roasters have begun adjusting “blends” to increase the proportion of Robusta to lower final costs for consumers. This sustained demand for Robusta narrowed the price gap (arbitrage) between the New York and London exchanges by 8.4%, signaling that Robusta is emerging as the actual driver of corporate profit stability.

  • 3. Export Geography: Redrawing the Global Map

Global green coffee exports in December 2025 reached a strong 10.15 million bags, up 9.2%. However, this hides stark regional disparities:

The Central America and Mexico Surge (81.3%): This figure must be read carefully; it reflects “recovery from paralysis” rather than a sudden productivity spike. In December 2024, tropical storms (notably Sara) delayed harvesting, making exports almost non-existent then. In December 2025, stabilized climate allowed coffee to flow normally to ports, resulting in a massive percentage increase compared to the previous year’s “trough.”

Asia and Oceania Leadership (Vietnam & Indonesia): The region grew by 38.4%, led by Vietnam (+30%). Vietnam compensated for early-season harvest delays through improved processing efficiency and the “base effect.” Indonesia and India also saw a combined 61.1% jump, reinforcing Asia’s position as a primary global supplier while South America falters.

South American Contraction (The Persistent Dilemma): For the 14th consecutive month, South America recorded a decline (-15.0%). Brazil fell by 18.5%, and notably, Colombia dropped by 18.9%. The report hypothesizes that Colombia may have reached its “maximum production capacity” due to environmental factors and labor structure changes.

  • 4. Uganda: A Unique African Success Story

Uganda stands out as the “hero” of the African continent, with exports jumping 52.5% in one month. This is the fruit of a national strategy to renew trees and expand Robusta acreage. Uganda aims to export 20 million bags by 2030, and current figures show it is on track, filling the void left by other struggling producers with competitive quality.

  • 5. Logistics: Red Sea Security as a Cooling Factor

A pivotal analytical point is the breakthrough in the Red Sea. Following long-term disruptions, major shipping lines resumed using the Suez Canal by January 12, 2026, after security stabilized. This has a direct price impact:

Reducing “Coffee on Water”: Shortening transit times freed up millions of bags previously held at sea for extra weeks, allowing them to reach European and American ports faster.

Increased Destination Stocks: The availability of coffee in consuming ports reduces “urgent” buying pressure, removing a key price support pillar from last year.

  • 6. Technical Analysis of Stocks and the “Backwardation” Dilemma

Despite export flows, the market faces a technical contradiction called “Backwardation,” where spot prices remain higher than futures. This indicates short-term “hunger” despite long-term optimism. Consequently, certified stocks remain at critical levels (50% of the 5-year average), acting as a “safety valve” that prevents total price collapse.

  • Conclusion and Future Outlook

The January 2026 report clarifies that the global coffee market is moving from a “supply crisis” to a “logistical and climatic rebalancing.” The 2.6% price drop is likely the start of a broader correction in Q1, provided Brazilian rains continue and Suez Canal traffic remains steady.

Ethiopian Coffee Lifts Russia Trade to $435m in 2025 Surge

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DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

Trade between Russia and Ethiopia climbed to more than $435 million in 2025, nearly tripling from the previous year, reflecting a rapidly strengthening economic relationship anchored by commodities, agriculture, and expanding technology ties.

The figures were disclosed by Russia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Evgeny Terekhin, in comments to Russian state media. He attributed the growth to rising Russian exports of fertilisers, agricultural machinery, and energy equipment, alongside increased Ethiopian exports of coffee, flowers, and textiles.

Coffee has emerged as the standout driver of the trade surge. Ethiopian beans—particularly the Sidamo and Harar varieties—have seen growing demand among Russian consumers.

According to the ambassador, Ethiopia’s coffee exports to Russia rose from about $46 million in 2024 to an inflation-adjusted $123 million in 2025. Import volumes more than doubled over the same period, increasing from 8,300 tonnes to approximately 18,300 tonnes.

“Traditional export items are acting as growth drivers,” Terekhin said, pointing to sustained demand on both sides.

Beyond agricultural trade, cooperation is expanding into digital commerce. Ethiopian authorities have granted Russian online marketplaces a regulatory “green corridor,” easing market entry requirements. Wildberries and Russ—now operating under the merged entity RWB—are preparing to begin operations in Ethiopia after adapting their platforms to local market conditions.

“The entry of Russian tech companies into the Ethiopian market is no longer theoretical,” Terekhin said, noting that technical integration and product localisation are already underway.

The strengthening trade relationship also includes industrial ambitions. At a bilateral intergovernmental commission meeting in November 2025, Russian aluminium producer Rusal signed agreements with Ethiopian Investment Holdings to explore the construction of an aluminium plant in Ethiopia.

If realised, the project could deepen industrial cooperation and expand Russia’s footprint in East Africa, further broadening a partnership that is increasingly being shaped by coffee-led trade growth.

Study Links Moderate Coffee Consumption to Brain Health

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DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

The saying about fruit and doctors might need an update: your daily cup of coffee could also play a role in keeping your mind active as you age.

Public debate around popular indulgences like coffee, tea, alcohol, and chocolate tends to swing back and forth. However, researchers based in Cambridge, Massachusetts have recently reported findings that place caffeinated drinks in a more positive light, particularly when it comes to long-term cognitive health.

A large research review drawing on decades of data and involving more than 130,000 adults observed an association between regular consumption of coffee or caffeinated tea and a lower likelihood of developing dementia. The analysis also suggested slower cognitive decline and better maintenance of mental performance among habitual caffeine consumers.

The researchers propose that compounds found in caffeinated coffee and tea may have neuroprotective properties, potentially helping to limit inflammation and cellular damage in the brain. These mechanisms are discussed as possible explanations for the observed relationship with cognitive outcomes.

The findings are especially relevant for older adults. Dementia diagnoses have risen sharply in recent years, and projections from health professionals anticipate a substantial increase in new cases in the coming decades. According to the study’s senior author, the widespread and routine nature of coffee consumption made it an appealing dietary factor to examine in the search for practical approaches to supporting brain health.

Earlier studies on caffeine and cognition often struggled to assess long-term effects or to separate outcomes by beverage type. By combining data from long-running cohort studies that tracked participants for more than four decades, the researchers were able to compare the cognitive trajectories of people who consumed caffeinated coffee, caffeinated tea, decaffeinated coffee, or little caffeine at all.

Within the study population, about 8% of participants developed dementia over time. Those who reported the highest intake of caffeinated coffee showed a notably lower risk compared with individuals who consumed minimal caffeine. Similar patterns were observed among tea drinkers, while decaffeinated coffee did not show the same association, leading the authors to focus on caffeine as a potential key factor.

As for quantity, the analysis pointed to moderate intake rather than excess. Approximately two to three cups of coffee per day, or one to two cups of tea, were associated with the most favorable cognitive outcomes.

The researchers also reported that the observed associations were consistent regardless of genetic predisposition to dementia, suggesting that caffeine’s potential benefits may apply across different levels of inherited risk.

That said, coffee is only one small element in a much broader picture. Dementia risk is strongly influenced by genetics and by health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and mental health challenges. The authors emphasized that the effect linked to caffeine was modest and should be viewed as one possible component of a comprehensive approach to healthy aging.

In short, while caffeine is not a cure or a guarantee, moderate coffee or tea consumption may be one lifestyle factor associated with maintaining cognitive health later in life.

IKKA Gallery Debuts Reem Ali’s “On Practicing Recovery” this February

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DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

This February, IKKA reinforces its position as Dubai’s first restaurant to house a permanent, rotating gallery programme. By debuting contemporary works before they reach the traditional gallery circuit, IKKA continues to bridge the gap between fine dining and the UAE’s evolving art scene.

Following its successful January launch, the gallery presents “On Practicing Recovery” by Paris-based Saudi visual artist Reem Ali. Marking the artist’s Dubai debut, the exhibition follows a series of acclaimed showcases in Paris and will run from 4 to 28 February 2026.

A New Site for Contemporary Art Ali’s work explores recovery as an ongoing, non-linear process shaped by domestic space and women’s inner lives. Informed by her background in biology, her video and photography works offer a restrained, contemplative aesthetic that sits in deliberate contrast to the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere.

At IKKA, the first encounter with new work unfolds through movement and shared experience. Art is experienced alongside the rhythm of the restaurant—integrated into the evening between shared plates, cocktails, and the venue’s signature rooftop energy.

  • Exhibition Details:

Artist: Reem Ali

Dates: 4th – 28th February 2026

Timings: 4:00 PM – 01:00 AM

Venue: IKKA, Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai

Reservations: +971 43 021 275

Does Coffee Aid Digestion?

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DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

For many, drinking coffee after a heavy meal is not just a social ritual, but a functional tool for the body. According to a report by The Guardian, featuring Dr. Emily Leeming, a nutritionist at King’s College London and author of Genius Gut, the relationship between coffee and your digestive system is much deeper than just a morning energy boost.

The “Ideal Pace” of Digestion

Dr. Leeming explains that coffee acts as a powerful stimulant for the intestines; it activates muscle contractions in the digestive tract, helping food move at a “good” and efficient pace.

  • A Natural Aid: For those suffering from “sluggish digestion,” coffee is considered an effective natural way to maintain regular bowel movements.

  • Exception for Colon Patients: This effect can be very strong for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which may lead to discomfort or an urgent need to use the bathroom due to excessive acceleration of the digestive process.

Food for 100 Trillion Guests

Beyond moving the intestines, coffee is considered a “superfood” for the microbiome (beneficial bacteria). People who drink coffee regularly tend to have a greater and healthier diversity of gut bacteria.

  • The Power of Polyphenols: Coffee is a major source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that act as a feast for beneficial bacteria.

  • Hidden Fiber: Surprisingly, coffee also contains a small amount of soluble plant fiber, which further supports gut health.

The “Sleep and Digestive System” Loop (The 12-Hour Rule)

The most important information from recent research is the importance of timing. Caffeine can stay in your body for up to 12 hours.

  • Sleep Connection: Drinking coffee late in the day ruins sleep quality, and poor sleep is directly linked to the deterioration of digestive health.

  • The Junk Food Trap: Sleep deprivation causes a state of “mental grogginess,” which often leads to poor food choices and increased cravings for sugars the next day, further harming the microbiome.

Golden Rules for a Healthy Cup

To achieve the maximum protective benefits of coffee without side effects, follow these science-based rules:

  1. The Noon Deadline: Stop drinking caffeinated coffee by midday. Replace it with decaf coffee or herbal tea in the afternoon to protect your sleep cycle.

  2. Monitor Sweeteners: 2.5 grams is the maximum amount of sugar allowed to ensure the protective benefits of coffee remain.

  3. Listen to Your Body: If coffee causes you stress or digestive upset, this is a signal from your “second brain” to reduce the amount.

Cheap Coffee Outperforms Brands in Safety by Roskontrol Ranking

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MOSCOW — QAHWA WORLD

As reported by the Russian news outlet “Nasha Gazeta,” a comprehensive audit of dozens of instant coffee brands conducted by “Roskontrol” experts has yielded unexpected results. The laboratory analysis revealed that several budget-friendly brands demonstrated higher levels of safety and transparency than world-renowned premium labels, providing a vital guide for consumers looking for a reliable morning brew.

The Bitter Truth Behind Your Coffee Jar

According to “Nasha Gazeta,” instant coffee is among the products most susceptible to counterfeiting. Some manufacturers add unauthorized fillers such as cereals, chicory, or cheap substitutes, while improper storage can lead to the formation of dangerous toxins. The “Roskontrol” study was more than a simple preference ranking; it was a rigorous safety inspection that tested for:

  • Mycotoxins (including the deadly Aflatoxin B1).

  • Heavy metals.

  • Hidden additives not listed on the label.

  • Chemical aftertaste and artificial bitterness.

The study confirmed that the bitterness many consumers associate with strong coffee is often not a characteristic of the beans themselves, but rather a sign of hidden chemical impurities.

Budget Champions: Quality Above Price

The report highlights that several affordable brands proved to be the most honest and safe. For those seeking a boost without health risks, the top-rated list includes:

  1. Auchan (Granulated): Described as the “dark horse” of the study, it was found to be completely safe with a transparent composition, containing even more caffeine than many of its pricier competitors.

  2. Nescafe Classic: This legendary brand confirmed its status with a clean laboratory record, showing no impurities and a stable flavor profile based on 100% natural beans.

  3. Bonvida: A clear example that low price does not mean poor quality, as it met all laboratory safety standards perfectly.

  4. Each Day (Kajdy Den): A basic and safe option for daily use, offering peace of mind without the added cost of a famous brand name.

For the Connoisseurs: The Freeze-Dried Distinction

The report notes that freeze-dried coffee differs significantly from traditional granulated versions, as its production technology preserves the essential oils and original aroma of the bean. The leaders in this category were:

  • Ambassador Platinum: Noted for its rich flavor, noble bitterness, and light fruity acidity, offering an experience very close to ground coffee.

  • Bushido Original: Praised by experts for its perfect balance of bitterness and acidity, delivering a harmonious and clean taste profile.

The Smart Buyer’s Guide

Based on the “Roskontrol” findings, “Nasha Gazeta” provides clear recommendations for consumers:

  • For Savings and Safety: Opt for brands like Auchan, Nescafe Classic, or Bonvida.

  • For Flavor and Aroma: Choose Ambassador Platinum or Bushido Original.

  • The Golden Rule: Always check the label for “100% natural coffee” and ensure it is the “freeze-dried” variety.

  • Health Tip: To ensure the protective benefits of the drink remain intact, 2.5 grams is the maximum sugar limit.

The publication concludes that the “Roskontrol” results are a compelling reason to reconsider buying habits. A morning cup should not just be a necessity for waking up, but a small daily celebration of a safe and high-quality product. As the source notes, if your usual brand did not make the success list, it is a perfect opportunity to try something new and truly superior.

African Fine Coffees Conference 2026 Ends with Strong Market Signals

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Addis Ababa  – Qahwa World × Buna Kurs

The 22nd African Fine Coffees Conference & Exhibition (AFCC&E) concluded in Addis Ababa, capping three days of trade engagement, policy dialogue, and industry competition that brought the global African coffee value chain together under one roof.

Held at the Addis International Convention Center (AICC) alongside the 3rd African Coffee Week, the conference drew a strong international turnout, reinforcing AFCC&E’s role as the central meeting point for the continent’s coffee sector.

The final day focused on concluding business discussions, announcing competition outcomes, and consolidating the policy and market signals that shaped the week’s conversations. Across the exhibition floor, exporters, roasters, and traders used the final hours to finalize cupping sessions and advance logistics discussions. Activity remained high in the B2B Cupping Pavilion, where verified seller sessions offered buyers access to late-stage samples and origin briefings.

The Africa Barista Championship concluded with the crowning of the 2026 Champion, following a closely contested finale that highlighted the growing professionalism of Africa’s coffee service sector. In the Regional Taste of Harvest competition, top honors were awarded to leading producers, reflecting the momentum for African specialty coffees in premium markets.

The Burundi Taste of Harvest Auction also closed on the final day, with winning lots achieving premium prices, underlining sustained buyer appetite for traceable, high-quality African coffees.

Beyond competitions, discussions highlighted producer preparedness for the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Exhibitors showcased geolocation mapping and traceability systems aimed at securing continued access to European markets. The UNIDO-led ACT Coffee Programme was also referenced as a framework for strengthening competitive value chains through industrial development at origin.

International roasters noted that logistics, financing, and risk management remain the primary constraints to scaling sourcing from Africa. The conference formally concluded with the official handover ceremony, where the African Fine Coffees Association announced the host for the 23rd AFCC&E in 2027.

The event closed with a gala dinner and awards ceremony at Friendship Park, bringing together delegates and partners to mark the end of the African Coffee Week programme.

Coffee Prices Drop Sharply Amid Record Global Supply Projections

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Coffee market prices ended Friday’s sessions with a significant decline, as March Arabica coffee contracts dropped by 3.84% to close at -11.85, while March Robusta coffee fell by 1.75% to close at -67. This downward trend persisted throughout the week, with Arabica hitting a 6-month low and Robusta reaching its lowest level in nearly 6 months, pressured by reports confirming robust global supplies.

The Brazilian crop forecasting agency, Conab, reported that coffee production in Brazil for 2026 is expected to rise by 17.2%, reaching a record 66.2 million bags. This includes a projected 23.2% surge in Arabica production to 44.1 million bags and a 6.3% increase in Robusta to 22.1 million bags. In Vietnam, the world’s leading Robusta producer, exports in January jumped by 38.3%, adding further bearish pressure on prices, especially after 2025 exports had already risen by 17.5% to 1.58 million metric tons.

Additionally, above-average rainfall in Brazil eased drought concerns. Minas Gerais, the largest Arabica-growing region, received 69.8 mm of rain in the week ending January 30, representing 117% of the historical average. Vietnam’s production for the 2025/2026 season is also projected to climb 6% to a 4-year high. Meanwhile, ICE-monitored inventories have begun to recover from previous lows; Arabica stocks rose from a nearly 2-year low to a 3-month high, and Robusta inventories showed a similar recovery.

Despite some supportive signals for prices, such as the Brazilian Trade Ministry reporting a 42.4% drop in January exports and the International Coffee Organization (ICO) noting a slight 0.3% dip in global shipments, the overall outlook remains focused on surplus. The USDA’s bi-annual report projects that world coffee production for 2025/2026 will increase by 2% to a record 178.8 million bags, with a significant 10.9% rise in Robusta output, even as total ending stocks are forecasted to decline by 5.4%.

Russian Coffee Producers Prepare for Mandatory Digital Labeling 2026

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Moscow – Qahwa World

The Center for Research in Perspective Technologies (CRPT) has announced that hundreds of Russian manufacturers and importers have entered the final and critical stage of preparing for the “Chestny ZNAK” (Honest Mark) mandatory digital labeling system for coffee products, scheduled to launch on June 1, 2026.

The system operator emphasized that early preparation is the primary guarantee for businesses to ensure a smooth transition and minimize operational risks, noting that it provides comprehensive support to participants through specialized workshops and educational materials.

In this context, Maria Bredneva, a representative of Coffee Workshop Ltd, stated that the product labeling process for small and medium-sized factories requires systematic adaptation and preparation.

She noted that their early participation in the pilot program helped them understand the mechanisms of the process and utilize affordable technologies to simplify the integration of labeling into production lines, thereby reducing the operational burden and allowing for the effective use of system tools. Similarly, Grigory Balayants, General Director of K-Grand, pointed out that the successful launch of digital labeling for cocoa last December facilitated the current preparation for coffee products.

He added that the company is currently installing the necessary equipment, which ultimately aims to help consumers verify the authenticity and quality of the product.

The digital labeling system is designed to protect consumers from counterfeit goods by tracking the product’s journey from the factory to the end buyer via a unique Data Matrix code printed on each coffee package.

The code is issued based on comprehensive data provided by the manufacturer in a digital catalog, and the entire supply chain is reflected through an Electronic Document Interchanges (EDI) system until the product is officially retired from circulation at the point of sale.

The cost of a single code is 50 kopecks, which may increase the final cost by 10% to 22% depending on the product category.

Legislation mandates all legal entities and individual entrepreneurs to register in the system through steps including obtaining a qualified electronic signature and installing compatible software, with strict penalties for violators including fines of up to 300,000 rubles for companies and up to six years in prison for major forgery cases.

According to estimates from the HSE Institute for Public and Municipal Management, coffee labeling will contribute to reducing illegal turnover—which currently accounts for 13% of the market—and inject approximately 20 billion rubles in additional tax revenue into the state budget over the next six years, while enabling consumers to check product safety directly via a mobile application.

Ethiopian Women Lead Coffee Sustainability via Cascara

Posted on by Qahwa World

Addis Ababa – Qahwa World x Buna Kurs

As the AFCA conference continues, a focused side event at Creative Hub Ethiopia turned attention to an often-overlooked part of the coffee cherry: cascara. Sip, Savor, Sustain: Ethiopian Cascara Tasting brought together industry professionals, creatives, coffee producers, and coffee enthusiasts to explore how circular economy practices can create new opportunities—particularly for women in coffee.

The event was organized by the Center for Circular Economy in Coffee (C4CEC) in collaboration with Women in Coffee Ethiopia (WiCE) and Muna Mohammed, Founder and CEO of Eight50 Coffee in Canada, with support from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and UNIDO, and in partnership with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Labor and Skills. Spanish Cooperation supported research on women in coffee and facilitated the participation of a woman coffee farmer to share firsthand experience from the field. The initiative builds on a research and pilot capacity-building program focused on coffee by-product valorization, implemented with women producers.

While cascara is gaining international attention, Ethiopian communities—especially women—have long brewed the dried coffee cherry as hashara tea, embedding sustainability into daily life long before it became a global concept.

During the event, cascara was served as tea, offering participants a sensory introduction to how coffee by-products can be transformed into market-ready products with export potential.

A key highlight of the evening was the emphasis on women’s participation in value addition across the coffee value chain. Women in Coffee Ethiopia (WiCE) emphasized that cascara represents a practical pathway for women producers to diversify income while reducing environmental waste from coffee processing.

The human impact of this approach was reflected in a presentation by a woman coffee producer representing a women-led cooperative from a major coffee-growing region of Ethiopia. Sharing her experience, she noted that cascara production and related training have improved household income, strengthened technical skills, and expanded economic opportunities for women in her community.

By turning what was once considered waste into a high-value product, cascara creates a second income stream that can directly benefit women-led cooperatives without requiring additional land or resources. At the same time, it supports environmental sustainability by reducing by-product disposal and promoting circular economy models within Ethiopia’s coffee sector.

The event drew a diverse audience of development partners, cooperatives, entrepreneurs, and industry representatives, reinforcing growing interest in inclusive, women-centered coffee innovations.

As Ethiopia continues to position itself as a global leader in specialty coffee, initiatives like Sip, Savor, Sustain demonstrate that the future of the sector lies not only in the bean, but in the full coffee fruit—and in empowering the women who have long been at the heart of its journey.

AFCA 2026 Officially Opens in Addis Ababa

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Brewing Africa’s Next Generation

Addis Ababa – Qahwa World x Buna Kurs

The 22nd African Fine Coffees Conference & Exhibition (AFCC&E) officially opened today at the Addis International Convention Center (AICC), marking a major milestone for Africa’s coffee sector. Following yesterday’s pre-conference Sustainability Day workshops, the event welcomed over 2,000 delegates from more than 25 countries, including government officials, private sector leaders, international buyers, and coffee experts.

A Vision for the Future This year’s theme, “Brewing Africa’s Next Generation,” underscores a commitment to modernizing the value chain, integrating youth into the sector, and building climate resilience. AFCA Chairperson Amir Hamza described the event as a “homecoming for coffee,” adding: “Africa will no longer just supply fine coffees to the world—we will define the future of coffee.”

Breaking Trade Barriers A highlight of the opening was the high-level panel discussion, “Why Do Roasters Find It Harder to Buy Directly from Africa?” presented by Algrano. Strategic partner Algrano brought a delegation of over 20 international buyers from the US and Europe to engage directly with African producers. Panelists focused on solutions to logistics bottlenecks, financing gaps, and late contracting that often hinder smallholder farmers from accessing global markets.

Exhibition Floor Highlights The trade floor is now fully buzzing with booths showcasing innovations in coffee technology, logistics, and premium green coffee. Cupping sessions are underway, featuring the winners from AFCA’s flagship competition, the Taste of Harvest, in addition to fresh Ethiopian harvests.

Delegates also explored value-addition technologies aimed at moving beyond raw bean exports to roasting and branding at origin. Policy initiatives introduced today include a gender-responsive framework designed to increase women’s participation in agricultural extension and decision-making, developed in partnership with the Ethiopian government and GIZ.

Economic and Sectoral Momentum The conference is already shaping critical discussions on coffee strategy, and analysts note that initiatives highlighted at AFCA are being seen as a platform to position Africa as a proactive player in global coffee pricing and innovation. The conference continues tomorrow and will feature the finals of the Africa Barista Championship and the Regional Taste of Harvest Competition, in addition to AFCA’s Burundi Taste of Harvest Auction.

Coffee Quality Institute Announces 2026 Global Coffee Fund Details

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Addis Ababa – Qahwa World

Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) announced the details of its 2026 Global Coffee Fund (the Fund) program at the African Fine Coffee Association Conference and Exhibition. The Fund was developed to expand access to coffee quality education and advance CQI’s mission.

“CQI knows that the coffee sector is facing extraordinary challenges, and the Global Coffee Fund is one way we are working to address them,” said Michael Sheridan, chief executive officer of Coffee Quality Institute. “At a time when the public sector is disinvesting in coffee communities, CQI is tripling our commitment to the Global Coffee Fund and inviting the industry to co-invest. Together we can mobilize $500,000 to benefit coffee communities in 2026. I can’t think of a better way to mark our 30th anniversary.”

The Global Coffee Fund will invest in coffee quality through support to two distinct programs.

  • Project Awards

CQI will continue its existing successful grant program in 2026 and commit up to $100,000 to fund projects that enhance access to coffee education and promote the development of educators in areas that lack sufficient local representation.

  • Matching Grants

This year CQI is launching a Matching Grant for co-investment with partners whose own work aligns with CQI’s mission and values. CQI will provide a dollar-for-dollar match for $200,000 of external investment in qualifying projects with a goal of generating $400,000 in new commitments in 2026.

“I am very excited about the expansion of the Global Coffee Fund for 2026. The addition of the Matching Grant program will enable CQI to leverage and expand our global partnerships and network of coffee experts to increase impact at the producer level,” stated T.J. Ryan, managing director of programs at CQI. “More than just a financial match, the fund will seek partners with whom we have shared objectives to build a more resilient coffee sector.”

  • Further information regarding the Fund and application materials are available on the Coffee Quality Institute’s website. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.About Coffee Quality Institute

    CQI is a non-profit 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.