Category: News

‘No Contract, No Coffee’: Bloomington Starbucks Workers Join National Strike

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The Starbucks on Indiana Avenue in Bloomington closed for most of Friday as workers joined a nationwide strike protesting the lack of a contract and stalled wage negotiations between Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol and the labor union Starbucks Workers United.

Barista and union member Eliza Ortiz said employees decided to strike after monitoring early national walkouts to see if management would return to the bargaining table. “If they wanted to come back to the bargaining table, our strike would have ended. But they haven’t, so we are escalating,” she said.

Starbucks Workers United, founded in 2021, now represents over 11,000 baristas in 550 stores nationwide. The Indiana Avenue store joined 120 other locations in the strike, which began with a nationwide walkout on Nov. 13 during Starbucks’ seasonal “Red Cup Day.” Bloomington’s other unionized Starbucks on State Road 46 did not participate, according to barista Annabelle Purkey.

National framework bargaining began in April 2024, but negotiations stalled after Starbucks rejected the union’s economic proposals in December 2024. The union criticized Starbucks’ counteroffer for failing to raise wages in the first year or address key issues. They subsequently filed a national unfair labor practice charge, accusing the company of failing to bargain in good faith.

About seven picketers arrived at Indiana Avenue at 8 a.m. Friday with signs reading “No Contract, No Coffee” and “Baristas on Strike!” Ortiz used a bullhorn to engage passing drivers, while members of the Bloomington chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America joined to support the protest.

The store closed roughly four hours after opening when employees did not show up. A sign on the door directed customers to other locations without mentioning the strike.

Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson said the Nov. 13 walkout affected less than 1% of stores. “Partner engagement is up, turnover is nearly half the industry average, and we get more than 1 million job applications a year. Any agreement needs to reflect the reality that Starbucks offers the best job in retail,” she said.

Indiana Avenue employees filed a petition to unionize in June 2024 due to inconsistent scheduling and low wages. Ortiz said employees often faced reduced hours and struggled to cover rent, groceries, and medications. She added that after organizing locally with Workers United, the group plans to picket daily until management addresses their demands.

Why Brazil Is Turning to Robusta Over Arabica?

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Brazil, the largest producer of coffee globally, is gradually changing its approach to cultivation as climate change challenges traditional arabica crops. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and increased disease pressure are encouraging more farmers to invest in robusta, a coffee variety that tolerates heat better and offers a stronger, more bitter flavor along with higher caffeine content.

The country’s main arabica-growing regions have experienced more frequent and severe droughts, reducing the resilience of this mild variety. While arabica remains Brazil’s primary export, robusta production has expanded rapidly, increasing by over 81% in the past decade, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Fernando Maximiliano, Coffee Market Intelligence Manager at StoneX, notes that robusta growth is primarily a response to climate-related losses in arabica, rather than a shift in consumer demand. Over the past three years, arabica production has increased by roughly 2–2.5% annually, while robusta has grown about 4.8% per year. This year, robusta production surged nearly 22%, marking a record harvest, reflecting its ability to withstand adverse weather and deliver profitable yields.

In hotter regions unsuitable for arabica, farmers are adopting strategies to grow robusta successfully, including planting coffee trees under the shade of native or other species to maintain soil moisture and protect the plants from heat. Jonatas Machado, commercial director of Café Apuí, emphasizes that such methods help maintain productivity and bean quality.

Although Vietnam remains the world’s top robusta producer, Brazil is closing the gap and may surpass it due to its structured supply chain. Robusta has higher caffeine and a stronger taste than arabica, but younger consumers tend to focus less on origin or roast notes, favoring personalized drinks with milk, syrups, and creamers that mask the flavor.

As coffee prices rise, robusta may become even more attractive to consumers. In Europe, the gap between arabica and robusta prices is expected to widen due to regulations requiring imported commodities to prove they do not come from recently deforested or degraded land; instant coffee, largely made from robusta, is exempt from these rules. Europe accounts for nearly half of global instant coffee revenue, according to Grand View Research.

Robusta’s growing popularity, high productivity, and improved quality have convinced an increasing number of Brazilian producers to invest in it. Alexsandro Teixeira, a researcher at the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, notes that higher quality beans have enhanced consumer appeal and contributed to rising robusta prices.

Coffee Price Forecast in Russia for 2026

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Experts have warned that coffee prices in Russia could see a significant rise in 2026. Sergey Mitrofanov, Marketing Director at Svarshchitsa Ekaterina, explained the factors influencing coffee prices and why an increase is expected to continue.

Mitrofanov noted that the cost of coffee results from a long chain of processes, including crop yields in producing countries, climate risks, global demand, logistics, roasting, inflation, and currency fluctuations. Since the Russian market relies entirely on imports, the dollar exchange rate directly affects the final coffee price.

The expert highlighted that most of the global coffee volume is traded on international exchanges: Robusta on the London Intercontinental Exchange and Arabica on the ICE in New York. According to ICE data, coffee prices reached about $3.25 per pound ($7.15 per kilogram) in September 2025, one of the highest levels in recent years. Between September 2024 and September 2025, global coffee prices rose by roughly 25%.

Mitrofanov indicated that prices are expected to continue rising, with a projected increase of around 20% in 2026. He explained that changes on the exchanges affect retail prices with a delay, as most purchases are contracted 6–12 months in advance.

He also noted that a poor harvest in one country does not automatically mean a shortage, as supply can be compensated by neighboring countries. Specialty coffee roasters continue to seek alternative lots to maintain quality while balancing cost, keeping options open for the Russian market.

Mitrofanov added that other costs such as equipment, maintenance, and logistics are rising year by year, which adds additional pressure on coffee prices. However, he noted that the strengthening of the ruble in the first half of 2025 temporarily lowered retail prices, and the market outlook for 2026 will depend on multiple factors.

Earlier reports showed that Americano and Latte were the most purchased drinks in Russian stores. There were also statements from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding plans to reduce coffee tariffs in global markets.

Matching Dubai’s Momentum: Drinkt Unveils Ultra-Personalized Digital Coffee Experience

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In a world accelerating at the rhythm of innovation, the cup of coffee remains an anchor of daily stability—that precious moment where the fragrance of tradition meets the speed of the digital age. From the heart of Dubai, the city where the pulse of creativity never ceases, a new revolution has ignited, redefining the consumer experience. It introduces the “Digital Café” concept as a leading model combining supreme quality with intelligent efficiency.

This profound transformation was the focus of a special interview hosted by the program Nabd Dubai (Dubai Pulse), presented by the accomplished anchor Raya Rammal, featuring Kateryna Borodych, the CEO of the famous digital café chain “Drinkt” for the Middle East and North Africa region.

The interview commenced with a report highlighting coffee’s crucial role as a driving force in the global economy. Coffee, which sustains over 25 million farmers, sees consumption exceeding two billion cups daily worldwide, with its annual revenues surpassing the $200 billion mark. While the global market size stands at $138 billion, forecasts suggest it will exceed $170 billion by 2030.

Regionally, the report confirmed that the coffee market in the Middle East and North Africa is valued at $11.5 billion, with expected growth exceeding 4% annually until 2030. Dubai shines in this landscape as a global hub for coffee trade, exporting between 15% and 18% of the world’s Arabica harvests and processing over 11,500 tons of beans through its specialized centers, reflecting an accelerated drive towards innovation and sustainability aimed at delivering a unique consumer experience.

Following this economic prelude, Ms. Katerina Borodich joined the studio to reveal the reason behind “Drinkt’s” choice of Dubai as the first point for its global expansion, with the chain already boasting 105 branches worldwide.

Katerina Borodich emphasized that this choice was no coincidence, but a strategic decision rooted in the city’s very nature: “Dubai is synonymous with innovation, and this perfectly aligns with Drinkt’s vision.” She noted that the Drinkt experience relies on digital solutions, allowing customers to order coffee via the app or digital kiosks, ensuring a smart and seamless experience.

She added: “Dubai is a city that encourages the adoption of innovation and sustainability and embraces new ideas. Its residents are always keen on modern experiences. It is also a global trade center, and its government has provided an excellent business environment. Therefore, Dubai is the best place to launch and develop our services.”

Katerina Borodich explained that there is “great harmony between Drinkt and Dubai” in speed, precision, and innovation, stressing that the city’s fast-paced and evolving nature, particularly in business centers, demands quality and quick delivery—a demand the digital model is designed to meet.

Regarding the target audience, the Drinkt CEO affirmed that the chain serves all age groups, and the digital transformation is not limited to attracting the youth who prefer contactless services.

Katerina Borodich further clarified: “The younger generation loves the digital approach, as they can order easily without speaking to anyone. As for the middle and older age groups, they often focus on customization, allowing them to modify ingredients, reduce calories, and adjust flavors via the app and smart cups. Few cafés offer this level of control. This makes our services suitable for broad segments, while maintaining the same quality, taste, and temperature.”

In response to a question about whether technology replaces employees, Katerina Borodich drew a clear line between automated efficiency and the human spirit: “Technology is supportive, but it does not replace people.” She stressed that the human element remains “an essential part of the experience,” and while digital solutions facilitate the process, the presence of staff is always vital.

Katerina Borodich concluded her discussion by asserting that coffee is not just a drink, but a “fixed element of stability” in a world full of volatility, noting that data shows some customers purchase the same drink hundreds of times, reflecting the depth of their connection to the experience. She added that Dubai is leading the growing expansion of the specialty coffee culture, serving as a crossroads between East and West and a cradle for integrating technology and identity.

Thus, the story of “Drinkt” in Dubai remains a living example that the future lies in integrating technology to deepen the human experience, not eliminate it, all within a framework of innovation that never ceases.

The Morning Brew and Youth: Study Uncovers Coffee’s Major Impact on Biological Aging

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Moderate Coffee Intake May Slow Cellular Aging in Severe Mental Illness

Dubai – Qahwa World

Groundbreaking research published in BMJ Mental Health suggests that consistent, moderate coffee intake could offer significant cellular anti-aging benefits for individuals grappling with major psychiatric disorders. Scientists found that consuming three to four cups of coffee daily was associated with notably longer telomeres—the core markers of biological aging—potentially translating to years of cellular protection.

Telomeres are the protective caps found on the ends of chromosomes. While the natural shortening of telomeres is a fundamental part of the aging process, this deterioration is often accelerated in people diagnosed with severe mental illnesses (SMI), including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

The Telomere Link: An Equivalent of 5 Younger Biological Years
The observational study, which included 436 adult participants, measured telomere length from white blood cells and analyzed self-reported daily coffee consumption, finding a distinct J-shaped curve correlation.

Specifically, participants who consumed 3 to 4 cups of coffee per day exhibited telomere lengths comparable to being five biological years younger than their non-coffee-drinking counterparts. This significant finding held true even after rigorous statistical adjustment for influential factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, specific type of mental illness, drug treatment, and extensive tobacco use history.

Why Moderation is Key: Antioxidants vs. Overdose Risk
It is a critical finding that the protective effects did not continue for participants who reported drinking five or more cups daily.

Researchers noted that this is consistent with international public health guidelines, which recommend limiting daily caffeine intake to a maximum of 400 mg (approximately four cups of coffee). They caution that exceeding this limit may, conversely, cause cellular damage and telomere shortening through the formation of reactive oxygen species.

The protective mechanism is attributed to the rich presence of powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds found in coffee. Since telomeres are highly susceptible to oxidative stress and inflammation, these compounds may help mitigate the core biological processes that accelerate aging in this vulnerable population.

This study highlights a potential, biologically plausible pathway for how a globally popular beverage—with estimated consumption reaching 10.56 billion kilos in the 2021-2022 period—might support cellular integrity and combat accelerated aging in major mental illnesses.

Coffee Prices in the United States Reach Their Highest Levels in Decades

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Coffee has become significantly more expensive across the United States, even after the recent removal of tariffs on imported beans. Shoppers continue to encounter elevated prices in supermarkets and cafés, raising questions about the reasons behind this sustained increase.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the average retail price of roasted coffee rose from $6.47 to $9.14 per pound in the 12 months leading up to September, an increase of roughly 41%. The nearly $3 jump is far steeper than the typical price fluctuations seen during volatile market periods, making the rise particularly notable to consumers.

The impact is evident on store shelves. A TikTok video posted in August drew attention to the rising cost of large containers of Maxwell House coffee at Walmart stores, where a 38.2-ounce tub reached $21.44 after nearly doubling in price within a year. The post struck a chord with many viewers who shared similar experiences with rising grocery bills.

Other major brands, such as Nespresso and Folgers, have also raised prices over the past year. Café prices have continued in the same direction: according to data tracked by the restaurant-software company Toast, the average price of a regular cup of coffee increased from $3.46 to $3.57 in the year ending October 2025.

Industry analysts describe this period as one of the most pronounced and sustained increases in coffee prices since the early 1980s, when the Bureau of Labor Statistics began monitoring retail coffee trends. Several major factors lie behind the surge:

• Weather-related disruptions in 2024, including drought and heavy rainfall in key producing regions such as Brazil and Vietnam, significantly affected yields.

• Coffee futures climbed sharply, rising from around $2 per pound in May 2024 to approximately $4 in April 2025, increasing the cost burden on importers and roasters.

• Tariffs introduced by the U.S. government in April 2025 added further pressure, with 10% duties placed on imports from several Latin American countries, about 20% on Asian suppliers, and a steep 50% tariff on Brazilian coffee.

During the period in which tariffs were applied, average retail prices rose by roughly 21%. In mid-November, the U.S. administration began rolling back these trade measures. Duties were removed for nearly all producing countries, and the remaining 40% tariff on Brazilian coffee was lifted shortly afterward, effectively ending the tariff structure for most major exporters.

Experts expect that it will take time for changes in import and wholesale prices to filter through to retail shelves, since consumer pricing tends to lag behind market adjustments. Still, the removal of tariffs is broadly seen as a step toward easing cost pressures in the months ahead.

Coffee Prices End the Week Higher as the Brazilian Real Strengthens

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March arabica coffee (KCH26) finished Friday’s session up by +1.50 (+0.40%), while January ICE robusta (RMF26) added +26 (+0.57%).

Coffee futures reached their highest levels in a week on Friday, supported by a stronger Brazilian real. As the real (^USDBRL) advanced to a one-week peak against the US dollar, Brazilian growers were less inclined to sell, prompting short covering in the market.

Weather concerns continue to contribute to upward pressure on prices. Arabica markets are receiving support from ongoing dryness in Brazil. Somar Meteorologia reported that Minas Gerais—Brazil’s largest arabica-producing region—recorded 26.4 mm of rainfall in the week ending November 21, representing just 49% of the long-term average. Robusta prices are also firm as forecasts predict heavy rains across Dak Lak in Vietnam, the country’s key coffee-growing province, which are expected to further postpone the current harvest.

Falling ICE coffee stockpiles remain a bullish factor. US tariffs on Brazilian coffee imports have sharply reduced inventories. Arabica stocks monitored by ICE dropped to 398,645 bags last Thursday, the lowest level in 1.75 years, while robusta inventories hit a 6.5-month low of 4,530 lots on Friday. American importers have canceled new orders from Brazil due to tariff pressures, tightening domestic supply. Between August and October—after the tariffs were introduced—US purchases of Brazilian coffee fell by 52% year-on-year to 983,970 bags. Roughly one-third of the coffee imported unroasted into the US typically originates from Brazil.

Last Friday, arabica futures slumped to a 7-week low after President Trump signed an executive order late Thursday removing tariff restrictions on Brazilian food goods, including the 40% levy previously applied to Brazilian coffee.

On the bearish side, StoneX projected last Wednesday that Brazil could produce 70.7 million bags of coffee in the 2026/27 marketing year, including 47.2 million bags of arabica—a 29% increase from the previous year.

Robusta markets also face pressure from expanding supply out of Vietnam. Data from the Vietnam National Statistics Office on November 6 showed that coffee exports for January–October 2025 rose by 13.4% year-on-year to 1.31 million metric tons. Production for the 2025/26 season is expected to grow by 6% year-on-year to 1.76 million metric tons (29.4 million bags), reaching a four-year high. In addition, the Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association (Vicofa) stated on October 24 that, provided weather conditions remain favorable, the country’s 2025/26 crop could exceed last year’s output by 10%. Vietnam remains the world’s largest producer of robusta.

Signs of tightening global supply continue to underpin prices. The International Coffee Organization (ICO) reported on November 7 that global coffee exports for the ongoing marketing year (October–September) slipped by 0.3% year-on-year to 138.658 million bags.

Further support emerged after Brazil’s crop agency Conab reduced its 2025 arabica production estimate on September 4. The new estimate stands at 35.2 million bags, down 4.9% from the May forecast of 37.0 million bags. Conab also revised the country’s total 2025 coffee crop downward to 55.2 million bags, compared with the earlier estimate of 55.7 million bags.

According to the USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) outlook released on June 25, global coffee production for 2025/26 is expected to rise by 2.5% year-on-year to a record 178.68 million bags. The report anticipates arabica production will fall by 1.7% to 97.022 million bags, while robusta output will rise 7.9% to 81.658 million bags. FAS also forecasts Brazil’s 2025/26 crop increasing by 0.5% to 65 million bags and Vietnam’s output jumping 6.9% to 31 million bags, marking a four-year high. Ending stocks for 2025/26 are projected to grow by 4.9% to 22.819 million bags, up from 21.752 million bags in 2024/25.

Long Beach Welcomes New Vietnamese Coffee Spot Amid Huge Opening Day Crowd

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Da Vien, a well-known Vietnamese coffee chain that started in Orange County, has opened its newest location in Long Beach on November 15, near the western edge of Cambodia Town.

Despite rainy weather, about 500 people lined up by 7 a.m., eager to try the specialty drinks and grab a free tote bag of goodies. One particularly enthusiastic customer reportedly arrived at 3:45 a.m. to secure the 10th spot in line.

“It was incredible,” said Vinny Nguyen, owner of Da Vien. “Even with the rain, the community showed up in numbers way beyond what I expected.”

The Long Beach café marks Da Vien’s seventh location and the fifth to open this year. Nguyen said the expansion was driven by strong community demand, noting that many customers travel from Los Angeles County to his Orange County shops.

Nguyen launched Da Vien in 2021 after struggling to find a Vietnamese coffee shop that matched his expectations. “It’s really hard to find authentic Vietnamese coffee,” he explained. “When I couldn’t find one that met my standards, I decided to open my own.”

Vietnamese coffee is known for its bold, rich flavor, made from Robusta beans, which are darker, earthier, and more caffeinated than the Arabica beans commonly found in the U.S. “It will keep you energized all day long,” Nguyen said.

Since the first shop opened in Westminster, Da Vien has grown in popularity, gaining over 79,000 Instagram followers and earning recognition in the Los Angeles Times as one of the best places for Vietnamese coffee.

The menu includes signature Vietnamese coffee available with flavored creams like ube and sesame, as well as matcha lattes and fruit teas. Prices range from $4 for a simple drip coffee to $8 for a 12-ounce bottle of Vietnamese coffee.

Nguyen noted that many customers return repeatedly to try all the drinks. “Being able to offer something the community loves and seeing them happy makes me proud,” he said.

The Long Beach location, at 715 E Anaheim Street, is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with plans for future expansions to more neighborhoods.

 

Low-Emission Concrete Production from Coffee Waste

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Researchers at RMIT University are developing new ways to reduce the carbon footprint of construction materials by converting spent coffee grounds into biochar for use in concrete. A life-cycle analysis conducted by RMIT University has shown, for the first time, that biochar made from used coffee grounds can help produce a lower-carbon concrete while maintaining the strength gains observed in earlier laboratory trials.

Previous experiments by the RMIT team involved heating spent coffee grounds at about 350°C without oxygen to create a fine biochar. When this material replaced 15% of sand in concrete, the 28-day strength increased by roughly 30%, offering a practical way to ease pressure on natural sand resources.

Building on these findings, a new study led by Dr. Jingxuan Zhang and Dr. Mohammad Saberian presents a full cradle-to-grave assessment measuring carbon emissions, resource consumption, and environmental impacts from production through to end-of-life. The analysis recorded CO₂ reductions of 15%, 23%, and 26% when biochar replaced 5%, 10%, and 15% of sand, along with up to 31% lower fossil-fuel use and improved impacts on waterways.

RMIT University notes that the research supports Australia’s shift toward a circular economy and net-zero ambitions by turning abundant organic waste into functional materials, reducing reliance on natural sand, and encouraging greater public engagement with resource recovery.

Low-Emission Concrete Production from Coffee Waste

Zhang said the findings strengthen the case for real-world applications. Professor Chun-Qing Li, who guided the research team, said the innovation demonstrates how organic waste can become a practical ingredient for lower-carbon infrastructure.

Saberian said the next steps include larger pilot projects, mix optimisation, and alignment with construction standards so the approach can be adopted confidently across future projects. RMIT and its partners have already advanced public demonstrations, including a footpath pilot and the first use of coffee-biochar concrete on the Victorian Big Build, and presented the concept through the National Gallery of Victoria’s Making Good: Redesigning the Everyday exhibition.

The study, “Carbon footprint reduction in concrete using spent coffee grounds biochar: a life cycle perspective,” is published in the International Journal of Construction Management (DOI: 10.1080/15623599.2025.2584549). Authors include Jingxuan Zhang, Mohammad Saberian, Rajeev Roychand, Jie Li, Chun-Qing Li, Guomin Zhang, and Dilan Robert.

What is the story behind “Functional Coffee” invading major coffee shops?

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The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) published an investigation into the growing popularity of coffee beverages containing added ingredients that target specific health benefits, known as “Functional Coffee,” noting its shift from specialized health food stores to major coffee shop chains.

Functional Coffee is defined as coffee beverages to which additional ingredients are added, such as mushrooms (like Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Chaga), protein, or collagen, aiming to provide consumers with benefits beyond the traditional caffeine boost.

The investigation indicates that consumers are seeking these additions to support clear focus, stable energy levels, or benefits related to skin and gut health.

In the context of this spread, Ellie Brecher, the nutritionist consulted by the BBC, affirms that Functional Coffee “is moving from specialized wellness corners to the mainstream,” as people have become “more interested in well-being, stress support, and energy stability.”

This transition is reflected in increased demand, where the health food chain Holland & Barrett nearly doubled its range of mushroom coffee drinks over the past year, while major stores like Marks & Spencer began selling Lion’s Mane latte beverages in their cafes.

The trend is not limited to that; coffee giants like Starbucks started selling protein-rich coffee in their US stores.

Furthermore, the Black Sheep Coffee chain launched its “Functional Wellness Latte” range, with Lion’s Mane latte sales being their best-seller, as customers add functional ingredients to approximately 15% of their total orders.

These striking figures confirm the findings of the food research company Tastewise, which found that the number of mushroom coffee drinks on UK cafe menus grew by 30% over the last year.

Regarding the product characteristics, the journalist who conducted the experiment reported that Lion’s Mane mushroom has a “subtle” flavor, and the Functional Coffee was not significantly different from a regular latte, despite her expecting the opposite.

As for the cost, these additions require an extra charge; at Black Sheep Coffee, adding Lion’s Mane mushroom costs about 99 pence (one British Pound), and collagen costs about £1.09.

In the context of health benefits, the investigation indicates that research on the effect of Lion’s Mane mushroom on brain function is “promising”; however, nutritionist Penny Suresh from the British Dietetics Association warns that the doses in commercial beverages are often “too low” to mimic the effects reported in research trials.

Nutritionist Ellie Brecher concludes her advice by stating: “If it makes you feel good and you have the budget for it, then go ahead and enjoy it… but remember the key is that it is an addition and not a magic solution.”

Functional Coffee Trend: The Rise of Mushroom & Protein Drinks in Major Cafes

For her part, in a special interview with “Qahwa World” commenting on these developments, Dr. Amani Adam said: “We have spent long years drinking coffee in the same traditional way. Although the global coffee market is growing from 2.2% to 4.3% annually, the more important thing is that health awareness is growing alongside it… because coffee has become part of a fast lifestyle filled with pressures and tension.”

She added: “From here, the role of Functional Coffee emerged – which has become a real solution to many problems associated with coffee drinking habits… such as tension, anxiety, and digestive and sleep disorders.”

She continued: “This vision is not new to us. For 4 years, I have seen the market moving in this direction, and that is why I started thinking about an awareness platform to clarify the benefits of coffee—especially Functional Coffee.”

She explained that the issue is not just ‘a healthy addition, nothing more.’ “Coffee itself contains more than a thousand bioactive compounds! This provides a huge opportunity to benefit from its chemical composition… transforming it from a regular caffeine dose… into a means to support focus, improve mood, and help the body perform better.”

According to Dr. Amani, this opened the door for powerful alternatives… such as Mushroom Coffee, which truly changed the concept of coffee for many people.

She concluded her statement by saying: “I believe that now is the appropriate time to understand the true role of coffee in our lives, and I thank Qahwa World for being among the first platforms to highlight everything new and important in the world of coffee.”

Coffee Prices Continue Rising Despite Tariff Cuts

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The global coffee market is entering a protracted period of rising prices, and even the easing of US tariffs has failed to change the trajectory of rapid price growth. In recent months, Arabica coffee has reached historic highs, and retail prices are only just beginning to reflect this jump. Experts warn that a reduction in the drink’s cost should not be expected in the foreseeable future, as supply chains and price dynamics continue to exert pressure on producers and sellers.

The global coffee market is entering a protracted period of rising prices, and even the easing of US tariffs has failed to change the trajectory of rapid price growth. In recent months, Arabica coffee has reached historic highs, and retail prices are only just beginning to reflect this jump. Experts warn that a reduction in the drink’s cost should not be expected in the foreseeable future, as supply chains and price dynamics continue to exert pressure on producers and sellers.

Cristina Scocchia, CEO of Illycaffe, announced that prices will increase again in January—the third such increase this year. She stated that the current rise in green bean costs remains “unhealthy,” and the company can no longer compensate for the increased expenses. Scocchia emphasized that the price increase will affect all countries and all sales channels. She attributes the sharp rise in Arabica prices primarily to speculation rather than global supply disruptions, although weak harvests in several countries also affect the market. (Note: I cannot confirm the accuracy of the company’s forecasts.)

Following the expansion of tariff concessions by US President Donald Trump for Brazilian agricultural products, Arabica and Robusta futures dropped by a few percent, but this effect proved temporary. Prices remained at abnormally high levels, underscoring the resilience of the long-term upward trend. The historical jump witnessed from 2023–2024—with Arabica costs increasing by almost 190% and Robusta by more than 260%—has not yet been fully reflected in retail. According to Carlos Mera, Head of Agricultural Commodities Research at Rabobank, the lag between exchange dynamics and store prices can range from several months to a year, so consumers should prepare for further price increases.

Despite the drop in futures and the easing of tariffs, producers continue to expect market growth and stable demand. According to Illycaffe’s long-term forecast, the cost of green Arabica will only enter a more stable range—remaining within $2.80–$3.00 per pound—in the second half of 2026. This indicates that the era of low coffee prices has effectively concluded, and the influence of speculative factors, climate risks, and trade policy will continue to hold the market in a high-cost zone.

Collectively, these factors form a strong expectation of further price increases for the end consumer. Even with sustained demand and the gradual adaptation of the market to new conditions, experts agree that a return to previous prices in the coming years is unlikely.

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 to Host Three Live Coffee Auctions at the Dubai Coffee Auction by DMCC

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Strengthening Dubai’s Position as a Global Coffee Hub Connecting Origin Markets with International Buyers

Dubai – Qahwa World

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 continues to reinforce its standing as a premier global trade platform for coffee professionals and enthusiasts. The fifth edition, taking place from 18–20 January at Dubai World Trade Centre, will feature three auctions under the Dubai Coffee Auction by DMCC banner. This follows the tremendous success of the 2025 auction, where bidding for select micro-lots exceeded USD 10,000 per kilogram, marking one of the highest figures globally.

This expanded auction programme will bring together some of the world’s finest coffees from leading farms and up-and-coming producers plus limited edition coffee equipment, further underscoring Dubai’s role as a gateway connecting origin markets with global consumers.

Organised in partnership with DMCC and DXB LIVE, the experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre, and coordinated with M-Cultivo, the global platform for premium coffee auctions, the three auctions introduce an elevated level of transparency, innovation, and market access for producers and buyers alike.

The trilateral collaboration continues to reshape the global auction model through a fully digital ecosystem that enhances market efficiency and expands international trading opportunities for premium coffee. Buyers can join remotely with full access to verified, detailed data for every lot on auction, enabled by advanced technology that ensures transparency and traceability. This unique model highlights Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, organisational excellence, and digital innovation that are redefining the future of coffee auctions worldwide.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DMCC, said: “Last year’s inaugural Dubai Coffee Auction set a new benchmark for the industry, with micro-lots exceeding USD 10,000 per kilogram and setting record prices on the global stage. As the UAE’s coffee market, currently valued at over USD 3.5 billion and projected to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2029, continues its rapid expansion, we are building on that momentum with an expanded programme for 2026 that will showcase more producers, varieties and limited edition equipment to a truly international audience. Through the DMCC Coffee Centre and our strategic partnership with World of Coffee Dubai, we are creating a fully integrated platform that connects producers, traders, investors and markets via a digital ecosystem that enhances price discovery, broadens market access and strengthens trust across the value chain – ultimately reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the most important global hubs for specialty coffee trade.”

Khalid Al Hammadi, Senior Vice President, DXB LIVE, added: “The auctions reflect Dubai’s growing status as a global centre for the coffee industry in the region. Expanding the auction programme underscores the event’s success in attracting leading brands and international platforms to the emirate. At DXB LIVE, we remain committed to delivering exceptional experiences that fuel this vital sector and contribute to the growth of the global coffee ecosystem from Dubai.”

Three Signature Auctions

Day 1: Dubai Coffee Equipment Auction
The event opens with an auction of limited edition coffee equipment, not available for sale elsewhere. Trade buyers and consumers alike will be tempted by the exclusive lots, highlighting global coffee craftsmanship and equipment innovation.

Day 2: Microlot Coffee Auction
This specialised auction features top-graded specialty microlots sourced from leading farms from countries including Panama, Colombia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Taiwan. Buyers can participate in cupping sessions to evaluate rare lots prior to live bidding, an immersive experience that showcases exceptional precision and craftsmanship while connecting producers with international buyers seeking the world’s finest coffees.

Day 3: Exhibitors’ Coffee Auction
Roasters and producers participating in World of Coffee Dubai will present their signature selections before a global audience of experts and buyers. With tasting and evaluation sessions preceding the live auction, exhibitors gain opportunities to expand their international footprint, forge long-term partnerships, and highlight innovation in roasting and coffee trading.

Coffee Market Growth
The auction programme arrives at a time of strong and sustained growth in the coffee industry. The UAE coffee market is valued at over USD 3.2 billion (AED 12 billion) and is expected to reach USD 4.5 billion (AED 16.5 billion) by 2029. The regional coffee market is projected to surpass USD 22 billion over the next decade, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4–5%.

Dubai has solidified its role as a global re-export hub with coffee re-exports exceeding AED 3.5 billion, driven by rising demand for specialty coffee, a flourishing café culture hosting more than 11,000 well-known brands, and a young consumer base prioritising quality and craftsmanship.

Reinforcing Dubai’s Global Coffee Leadership
The three auctions highlight the pivotal role of World of Coffee Dubai in strengthening the emirate’s global leadership in specialty coffee trade and innovation. Through its diverse programme, the event brings together all players across the value chain, from farmers and producers to roasters, importers, traders, retailers, equipment manufacturers, and industry experts.

Applications are now open for exhibitors wishing to submit coffee equipment or premium coffee lots for the 2026 auctions. All submissions will undergo strict evaluation criteria covering innovation, traceability, and cupping scores. Approved lots will be showcased live during the event and promoted globally by DMCC and M-Cultivo, enhancing visibility across the international buyer network.

Buyers must complete advance registration to participate in the auctions onsite or remotely.

For more information or to register, please visit: dubaicoffeeauction.mcultivo.com