Category: News

DXB LIVE Announces Fifth Edition of World of Coffee Dubai 2026

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Dubai – Qahwa World

DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), has announced the return of World of Coffee Dubai for its fifth edition, taking place from 18 to 20 January 2026 at Za’abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, and 6 at the DWTC.

Organised by DXB LIVE in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), World of Coffee Dubai has rapidly grown to become the leading coffee industry event in the Middle East, bringing together producers, roasters, traders, and experts from across the globe. The 2026 edition builds on this success, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for coffee trade, culture, and innovation.

Since its inception, the exhibition has quadrupled in size, reflecting the region’s expanding coffee landscape. International exhibitors now account for around 77% of total participants, underscoring the global coffee community’s confidence in Dubai as a meeting point for business and innovation.

The event coincides with the strong growth of the UAE’s coffee market, currently valued at over USD 3.2 billion (AED 12 billion) and projected to grow 8.4% annually, reaching USD 4.5 billion (AED 16.5 billion) by 2029. Across the MENA region, the market is expected to exceed USD 11 billion (AED 40 billion) within the same period. This expansion is fueled by rising demand for specialty coffee, shifting consumer preferences, and sustained investment in quality, sustainability, and technology—all of which are reflected in this year’s enhanced edition.

Commenting on the announcement, Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE, said: “This exhibition embodies the UAE’s vision to be a global hub for specialty coffee, bridging producing regions and fast-growing markets. With participation expanding each year, World of Coffee Dubai has become an international platform uniting leading experts, brands, and innovators—reflecting Dubai’s spirit of innovation and reaffirming its pivotal role in shaping the future of the coffee industry both regionally and globally.”

Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, added: “World of Coffee Dubai has become one of the key events where the global coffee community comes together under one roof. Each new edition strengthens its position as an exceptional international showcase, thanks to the outstanding calibre of participants who help define the future of specialty coffee.”

Khalid Al Mulla, CEO of the SCA UAE Chapter, emphasized the event’s educational impact: “What distinguishes World of Coffee Dubai is its commitment to learning and knowledge exchange. It’s more than a marketplace—it’s a place where ideas are shared, skills are refined, and partnerships are built, creating a sustainable and thriving ecosystem for the coffee industry.”

The 2026 edition will feature the most diverse and inclusive program to date, including three national coffee championships—the UAE National Barista Championship, UAE National Cup Tasters Championship, and UAE National Roasting Championship—alongside the Best Coffee Design Awards, the Best New Product Competition, and two exclusive coffee auctions featuring some of the world’s rarest beans.

World of Coffee Dubai continues to serve as a global platform celebrating coffee culture, fostering innovation, and connecting tradition with progress. Exhibitors can now secure their spaces, and early-bird tickets for visitors are available through the official website: dubai.worldofcoffee.org

Rains in Brazil and Tariff Hopes Shake Global Coffee Markets

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The global coffee market experienced another week of turbulence as changing weather conditions in Brazil and renewed hopes for a U.S.–Brazil trade deal sent Arabica prices on a volatile ride. December Arabica futures opened the week of October 13 at 373.20 cents per pound, marking the weekly low, climbed to 418.50 cents on Wednesday, and closed Friday at 397.45 cents per pound. The 45.30-cent range reflected a market increasingly driven by both climate and political signals.

The week began with upward momentum, supported by a stronger Brazilian Real and dry weather forecasts across southeastern Brazil. However, optimism faded midweek as rainfall finally reached the coffee-growing regions. Brazil’s Somar Meteorologia reported significant precipitation in Minas Gerais, the country’s largest Arabica-producing state, with further showers expected through the week. The long-awaited rains prompted traders to liquidate long positions, easing the price rally that had dominated previous sessions.

Market sentiment shifted further when U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to meet Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to discuss trade cooperation. The news sparked speculation that the two countries might resolve the ongoing tariff dispute affecting coffee exports. Brazilian coffee currently faces a 50% import tariff in the U.S., and even the prospect of relief was enough to trigger additional selling pressure. Analysts cautioned that, while both governments have expressed willingness to negotiate, no official policy change has yet been confirmed, leaving American buyers facing the same challenges in securing Brazilian coffee.

In Brazil, farmers welcomed the long-awaited rainfall after weeks of drought, though experts noted that one week of showers will not immediately reverse months of stress endured by coffee trees. The timing and consistency of upcoming rainfall will be critical to support flowering and the next harvest cycle. While weather conditions dominated origin discussions, another noteworthy development came from West Africa. Liberia announced plans to introduce Coffee Liberica as its national flagship crop under the FAO’s One Country One Priority Product initiative, expected to launch in December 2025. The program aims to elevate the indigenous Liberica species to global recognition alongside Arabica and Robusta, potentially revitalizing Liberia’s agribusiness sector by creating jobs, attracting investment, and expanding its international presence. Although Liberica remains unfamiliar to many consumers, industry observers believe this move could generate renewed curiosity and demand for the rare variety.

In currency markets, the U.S. Dollar Index traded within a narrow range as traders monitored political developments and awaited signals from the Federal Reserve, which entered its communication blackout period ahead of its next policy meeting. Concerns about a potential government shutdown in the United States persisted but lacked the urgency seen earlier in the month. Both the British Pound and the Euro strengthened modestly against the Dollar as global markets remained steady. By the end of the week, GBP/USD stood at 1.34 and EUR/USD at 1.165, marking a calm close to an otherwise eventful week in the coffee and currency markets.

Specialty Coffee Association Releases Its 2024 Annual Report

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The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has released its 2024 Annual Report, signed by Chief Executive Officer Yannis Apostolopoulos, highlighting a transformative year marked by new quality standards, record membership growth, scientific advancements, and unprecedented global expansion in education and events — all with a strong focus on sustainability, research, and equitable value distribution across the coffee industry.

According to the report, 2024 represented a pivotal year for the SCA, as it officially adopted and published the new Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) standards, replacing the long-standing 2004 cupping form. This milestone positioned the CVA as the official protocol for global coffee quality evaluation. The association recorded more than 10,000 downloads of the CVA forms, over 1,500 learners enrolled in the “CVA for Cuppers” course, and more than 130,000 views on its CVA educational video series on YouTube. Additionally, the SCA waived course fees for over 500 coffee professionals in producing countries, ensuring broader and fairer access to professional education.

A major achievement highlighted in the report was the introduction of a new membership model offering free access to the SCA’s resources, educational programs, and events. This initiative led to exponential growth, bringing the association’s global community to over 100,000 companies and coffee professionals within just six months — a reflection of its ongoing mission to make knowledge and opportunities accessible to all who contribute to the specialty coffee industry.

The report also emphasized the strong research momentum driven by the Coffee Science Foundation (CSF), which supported six flagship projects in 2024. These included studies on physical defects in green coffee, developing a universal roast measurement system, exploring sweetness perception, analyzing the impact of packaging on consumer experience, and understanding how value is created and distributed throughout the coffee value chain. These efforts underscore the SCA’s commitment to fostering data-driven innovation and sustainability.

Globally, the SCA expanded its footprint through multiple major events. The “World of Coffee” trade shows took place in Dubai, Chicago, Busan, and Copenhagen, serving as platforms for knowledge exchange, business, and innovation. Notably, 2024 marked the first-ever World of Coffee held in Asia — in Busan, South Korea. The year also saw the launch of the Coffee Value Summit in Shenzhen, China, focusing on value creation and the implementation of the CVA. Other initiatives included “Green Coffee Connect,” fostering relationships between producers and importers, and the “Retail Buyer’s Lounge,” designed to enhance business networking during trade shows.

Following a period of financial stabilization from 2020 to 2023, the SCA strategically reinvested in 2024 to expand access to education, fund critical research, and strengthen partnerships. The association maintained a balance between program growth and fiscal responsibility, ensuring its ability to continue serving the global coffee community despite economic uncertainty.

In the area of education, the SCA organized five Educator Summits across Asia and the United States, providing platforms for trainers and educators to enhance their teaching and professional development. Comprehensive multilingual surveys were also conducted to gather feedback from trainers and learners, leading to further curriculum improvements and the development of new systems to support global education in coffee.

Looking ahead, the report outlined ambitious plans for 2025, including the launch of a comprehensive coffee evaluation program in partnership with the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), expanded educational offerings for green coffee sellers and retailers, the creation of online forums to connect the global coffee community, and continued research into equitable value distribution and sustainability across the coffee value chain.

The 2024 Annual Report reaffirms the SCA’s role as a leading global organization uniting research, education, standards, and events to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable future for the specialty coffee industry worldwide.

Roast Magazine Reveals 2026 Roaster of the Year Winners

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Two outstanding coffee companies have earned top recognition in the 22nd annual Roaster of the Year awards presented by Roast Magazine. Kafiex Roasters and Driftaway Coffee were named the 2026 winners in the Micro and Macro categories, respectively. Their achievements will be highlighted in the November–December 2025 issue of the magazine.

Each year, Roast Magazine selects two roasters that set benchmarks for excellence in coffee quality, environmental responsibility, education, and community engagement. The Micro Roaster of the Year category honors companies producing under 100,000 pounds annually, while the Macro category recognizes those exceeding that volume.

Kafiex Roasters: 2026 Micro Roaster of the Year

Hailing from Vancouver, Washington, Kafiex Roasters operates as both a roaster and café business. Established in 2018 by Matthew and Seidy Selivanow, the company is widely recognized for its focus on sustainability and education. Kafiex runs two coffee shops and has introduced a range of environmentally friendly initiatives, including a zero-waste specialty instant coffee line and a roasting system designed to minimize emissions.

Beyond roasting over 16,000 pounds of coffee in the past year, the team invests heavily in bilingual training programs, direct relationships with producers, and inclusive education efforts that reflect its commitment to accessibility and community empowerment.

Driftaway Coffee: 2026 Macro Roaster of the Year

Founded in Brooklyn, New York, in 2014 by Anu Menon and Suyog Mody, Driftaway Coffee has become known for its personalized approach to coffee education and sustainability. The immigrant- and woman-led business specializes in subscription-based coffee experiences that connect consumers directly with farmers through virtual tastings and transparent sourcing.

Driftaway’s sustainability efforts include compostable packaging, full pricing transparency, and consistent support for women- and minority-owned farms. The company also donates a portion of its proceeds to World Coffee Research. Over the past year, Driftaway roasted more than 125,000 pounds of coffee, continuing its mission to combine environmental responsibility with consumer education.

Honoring Innovation and Impact

The finalists in this year’s competition reflect the evolving spirit of specialty coffee. Alongside Kafiex in the Micro category were Three Keys Coffee and Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters, while Corvus Coffee and Nossa Familia Coffee joined Driftaway as Macro finalists.

All of the contenders demonstrated exceptional leadership in sustainability, equity, and community building — values that continue to define the future of coffee roasting worldwide.

AI and Sustainability Redefine the Future of Coffee Trade

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The “Future of Trade 2024: Decoupled and Reconfigured” report released by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) offers a forward-looking view of how global trade is transforming amid economic, environmental, and technological change.
Although coffee trade is not discussed in detail, the report’s three defining forces — regionalisation, digitalisation, and sustainability — have direct implications for the global coffee industry and its complex supply chain stretching from farms to roasters.

Regionalisation and the Reconfiguration of Supply Chains

The report forecasts that global trade will rebound moderately, growing by 2.6% in 2024 and 3.3% in 2025, after contracting by 1.2% in 2023.
This recovery, however, comes with an important shift: the world is moving toward regionalised trade blocs and “friend-shoring,” in which supply chains are relocated closer to politically aligned or geographically proximate partners.

In the coffee sector, this means supply routes and logistics networks are being redrawn. Neutral hubs such as Dubai are expected to gain importance as aggregation and re-export centres for coffee shipments heading to Europe, Asia, and Africa.
With the total value of global merchandise trade reaching US$31 trillion in 2023, competition among trading hubs to attract high-value commodities, including coffee, is intensifying.

Sustainability: From Compliance to Market Advantage

The DMCC report highlights the rapid rise of climate policy as a trade determinant, particularly with the introduction of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
This system is redefining competitiveness by penalising carbon-intensive exports and rewarding those with low emissions and traceable supply chains.

While services trade is growing by 9% compared to 6% for goods, agricultural producers — especially in coffee — face mounting pressure to meet environmental standards and prove compliance with deforestation-free regulations.
Those who succeed can access the so-called “green premium”, where verified sustainable coffees command higher prices in European markets.

Within this context, Dubai’s advanced infrastructure and regulatory environment position it as a gateway for sustainability-compliant trade.
According to DMCC’s Commodity Trade Index 2024, the United States ranks first, followed by the United Arab Emirates and Switzerland, confirming Dubai’s role as one of the world’s top three commodity trading hubs — a ranking that reinforces its potential as a major coffee re-export platform.

Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence: The New Engine of Coffee Trade

The report identifies artificial intelligence (AI) as the single most transformative force in global commerce.
In the coffee industry, AI can optimise pricing, logistics, and quality control — analysing weather data, yield forecasts, and logistics variables to improve risk management and profitability.

AI-driven blockchain traceability systems are also reshaping trust across the supply chain, giving roasters and buyers greater visibility from origin to cup.
At the same time, trade documentation and payments are moving toward full automation, making transactions faster and less costly.

The report further projects that B2B e-commerce will grow by 14.5% through 2026, while digital services exports reached US$3.82 trillion with annual growth of 8%.
For coffee producers and roasters, this trend opens the door to direct online trade platforms that bypass intermediaries and enhance market access for certified coffees.

Trade Finance and the Credit Gap

DMCC underscores a global trade finance gap of US$2.5 trillion, a shortfall that disproportionately affects small exporters and agricultural producers.
In coffee-producing regions, this financing gap often limits the ability of cooperatives and smallholders to meet environmental or certification requirements.

Innovative financial instruments such as Supply Chain Finance (SCF) can bridge this divide by linking credit access to verified sustainability and traceability metrics — offering incentives for producers who adopt transparent and climate-friendly practices.

Dubai’s Growing Role in Sustainable Coffee Trade

Thanks to its strategic location, world-class logistics, and neutral trade environment, Dubai is strengthening its position as a central hub for global commodities.
The city is rapidly becoming a key centre for sustainable coffee re-export, supported by free zones that offer packaging, lab testing, and digital traceability services.
These capabilities align with the UAE’s broader vision of building a diversified and green economy, where technology and sustainability define the next era of trade.

Key Numbers from the Report

Global trade growth: +2.6% (2024), +3.3% (2025)

Value of merchandise trade: US$31 trillion (2023)

Services trade growth: +9% vs. +6% for goods

Trade finance gap: US$2.5 trillion

Top commodity hubs: 1. USA, 2. UAE, 3. Switzerland

B2B e-commerce growth: +14.5% through 2026

Digital service exports: US$3.82 trillion

The Road Ahead

As global trade becomes increasingly regionalised, sustainable, and data-driven, the coffee industry stands at a pivotal juncture.
Those who can embrace technology, achieve sustainability compliance, and diversify their trade networks will not only survive but thrive in this evolving landscape.
Amid this transformation, Dubai continues to bridge continents — linking coffee origins in Africa and Latin America with fast-growing consumer markets across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Tokyo to Host World of Coffee 2027 and the World Barista Championship

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), in collaboration with Exporum Inc. and the Specialty Coffee Association of Japan (SCAJ), has officially announced that Tokyo, Japan will host World of Coffee 2027 and the World Barista Championship (WBC). The announcement was made during the SCAJ 2025 World Specialty Coffee Conference held in Japan.

The official signing ceremony brought together Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, Danny Shin, CEO of Exporum, and Yoshi Kato, President of the Specialty Coffee Association of Japan. The upcoming event will be the fourth edition of World of Coffee Asia, following successful shows in Busan and Jakarta. It will take place at Tokyo Big Sight from April 28 to May 1, 2027, and will feature the 27th World Barista Championship.

The return of the championship to Japan marks a significant milestone, coming twenty years after Tokyo last hosted the event in 2007. That year, James Hoffmann from the United Kingdom claimed the world title using coffees from Costa Rica and Kenya—an influential performance that transformed how baristas presented coffee origins and storytelling, cementing his place as one of the most respected figures in specialty coffee.

Since then, Tokyo has become a global hub of coffee innovation, precision, and design, with its cafés and roasters recognized for pushing the boundaries of quality and creativity. Japan remains one of the world’s largest coffee markets, known for its dedication to craftsmanship and detail. As the world prepares for World of Coffee Tokyo 2027, the international coffee community once again turns its attention to Japan as a center for inspiration and excellence in specialty coffee.

World of Coffee Tokyo 2027 will welcome exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees from across the global coffee value chain. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch the World Barista Championship live on the World Coffee Championships stage and take part in seminars, workshops, and industry sessions that showcase the latest trends shaping the future of coffee.

Further information regarding registration, exhibition, and event participation will be announced soon through the official channels of the Specialty Coffee Association and the World Coffee Championships.

World of Coffee and World Brewers Cup Head to Bogotá, Colombia in 2027

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has officially announced that World of Coffee Bogotá 2027 will take place in Colombia’s vibrant capital city from September 30 to October 2, 2027, hosting the prestigious World Brewers Cup competition.

The announcement was made during the first round of the 2025 World Barista Championship at HostMilano, where SCA CEO Yannis Apostolopoulos and Federación Nacional de Cafeteros de Colombia (FNC) CEO Germán Alberto Bahamón Jaramillo jointly revealed the exciting news.

Strengthening the SCA–FNC Partnership

This milestone event marks a new chapter in the collaboration between the SCA and FNC. Both organizations are joining forces to bring together the world’s top coffee professionals and competitors in one of the globe’s most dynamic coffee-producing nations. Their partnership recently deepened through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on integrating the SCA’s Coffee Value Assessment methodology into the FNC’s national coffee quality processes.

A Return to Latin America’s Coffee Heartland

World of Coffee Bogotá 2027 follows World of Coffee Panama 2026, which will feature the World Barista Championship. Bogotá’s selection continues the SCA’s commitment to hosting world-class coffee events in producing countries, strengthening ties between origin and the global specialty coffee community.

The 2027 edition will also celebrate the return of a World Coffee Championship to Colombia after sixteen years — the last being the 2011 World Barista Championship held in Bogotá. This return underscores Colombia’s enduring importance to the global coffee industry and its role as a leader in quality, innovation, and sustainability.

A Global Gathering for Coffee Professionals

World of Coffee Bogotá 2027 will welcome exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees from every segment of the specialty coffee value chain. Visitors will be able to experience live World Brewers Cup performances, attend professional sessions, and engage with leading experts in coffee innovation and trade.

World of Coffee and World Brewers Cup to Take Place in Bogotá, Colombia in 2027

Additional details regarding exhibitor registration, speaking opportunities, and program highlights will be released in the coming months on the official SCA and World Coffee Championships platforms.

Dubai: The Next Global Coffee Trade Nexus

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Dubai — Qahwa World

Dubai is rapidly establishing itself as one of the world’s most influential players in the international coffee trade. Once renowned for its dominance in gold, oil, and logistics, the emirate is now redefining itself as a global coffee hub connecting producing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America with consuming markets across Europe, the Middle East, and North America. With its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and thriving specialty coffee culture, Dubai is emerging as the next global nexus of the coffee industry.

Coffee is far more than a daily beverage — it is a $200 billion global economy that sustains over 25 million smallholder farmers and fuels more than two billion cups consumed every day. Yet the industry is under intense pressure. Climate change, volatile prices, supply chain disruptions, and changing consumer tastes have reshaped global trade dynamics. Amid these challenges, Dubai has positioned itself as a stabilising force that combines innovation, transparency, and accessibility to create new opportunities for producers and traders worldwide.

The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has been at the forefront of this transformation through its state-of-the-art Coffee Centre located in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. The facility offers integrated services for roasting, storage, packaging, logistics, and trade, serving more than 300 members across the global coffee value chain. Designed on a pay-as-you-go model, it allows small producers and independent traders to access world markets without the burden of fixed commitments. According to Mike Butler, Associate Director of Coffee at DMCC, this flexible approach “makes the Coffee Centre extremely friendly for small businesses” and allows them to scale as they grow.

“Dubai is defining the global trend in specialty coffee today,” said Garfield Kerr, President of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and founder of Mokha1450. “In Dubai, coffee functions like wine elsewhere — it’s a cultural experience built around craftsmanship and taste.” Over the past decade, independent roasteries and boutique cafés have replaced international chains across the city. Consumers have become increasingly informed about freshness, roast profiles, and sustainability, pushing the market toward higher quality and transparency.

Dubai’s geographical advantage is another factor behind its success. Situated almost exactly between the world’s top producing nations — Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Indonesia, and Ethiopia — the emirate offers unmatched access to global shipping routes. Its proximity to East Africa, one of the fastest-growing specialty coffee regions, gives it a natural advantage over traditional European hubs. “If you map the world’s major coffee producers, Dubai sits almost exactly in the centre,” Butler explained. “It’s only a matter of time before Dubai challenges Hamburg as the global leader in coffee trade.”

The DMCC Coffee Centre’s Tradeflow platform has introduced a new level of digital transparency to an industry often criticised for its opacity. Every batch traded through the system is physically verified and stored within the centre’s temperature-controlled facility, ensuring quality and trust between producers and buyers. By integrating blockchain-based traceability and tokenised finance options, DMCC has reduced intermediaries and opened new financing channels for smallholder farmers. Its partnership with the African Fine Coffees Association (AFCA) further supports African producers through logistics, warehousing, and buyer introductions, helping them retain greater value from their exports.

Dubai’s rise as a coffee capital is also cultural. The World of Coffee Dubai exhibition, held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, has become a magnet for industry leaders and enthusiasts alike. The 2025 edition drew nearly 17,000 visitors and 2,000 exhibitors, hosting auctions of the world’s rarest coffees and showcasing 131 debut brands — three-quarters of them international. “The world showed up,” said Kerr. “The coffee innovation coming out of Dubai is now influencing global trends.”

As global coffee trade evolves, sustainability has become central to Dubai’s vision. The emirate is investing in climate-smart agriculture, low-carbon logistics, and advanced digital systems that track environmental compliance. Experts warn that by 2050, up to half of existing coffee-growing land could become unsuitable due to rising temperatures, making adaptation essential. Initiatives such as agroforestry, drought-resistant varieties, and circular-economy recycling of coffee by-products are gaining momentum.

Through innovation and technology, Dubai is setting new standards for transparency and sustainability in coffee trading. Artificial intelligence now supports quality monitoring, while blockchain ensures traceable supply chains. Companies are exploring compostable packaging, recycling capsules, and transforming used coffee grounds into new products, aligning commerce with environmental responsibility.

“Whether it’s the supermarket, the sports club, or the cinema, coffee standards are rising everywhere,” Butler observed. “Dubai is uniquely positioned to lead this evolution, combining innovation, logistics, and sustainability into one cohesive ecosystem.”

In an era of shifting trade routes and unpredictable markets, Dubai has turned its vision into action. The city’s integration of culture, technology, and commerce is rewriting the rules of how coffee is traded and valued. More than a gateway between continents, Dubai has become the command centre of global coffee commerce — a place where beans, business, and innovation converge to shape the future of one of the world’s most beloved drinks.

Krylon Names “Matte Coffee Bean” the 2026 Color of the Year — A Return to Warmth and Nature

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Dubai – Qahwa Wolrd

American paint manufacturer Krylon, one of the leading global brands in decorative and industrial coatings and a subsidiary of Sherwin-Williams, has announced “Matte Coffee Bean” as its 2026 Color of the Year.

The deep, earthy brown hue draws inspiration from the natural tones of roasted coffee beans — symbolizing warmth, balance, and a grounded connection to nature. The choice reflects a broader global movement toward organic minimalism and the desire for tranquil, restorative living spaces.

According to Lisbeth Parada, Color and Design Lead at Krylon, “Matte Coffee Bean represents more than a color trend — it’s an expression of comfort and calm. It complements wood, stone, and marble beautifully, creating harmony without overwhelming the space.”

The color also carries a poetic symbolism tied to coffee itself — representing transformation, craftsmanship, and authenticity, much like the coffee bean’s journey from farm to roast. In design terms, it embodies the shift from industrial strength to natural warmth, following Krylon’s 2025 pick, Hammered Black, marking a gentle evolution toward human-centered, nature-inspired aesthetics.

Krylon’s creative team identified three leading trends shaping its 2026 palette:

Restorative Refuge – Homes as spaces for comfort and mental rejuvenation.

Less is More – A minimalist mindset emphasizing longevity, reuse, and timeless finishes.

Grit and Grind – A celebration of handmade artistry and the beauty of effort.

To accompany the Color of the Year, Krylon introduced a complementary palette featuring Satin Khaki, Metallic Gold, and Hammered Black, blending elegance with simplicity.

With decades of expertise, Krylon continues to influence color design trends worldwide. Founded in 1947, it pioneered the first aerosol paint and remains a trusted name for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its products are known for innovation, durability, and accessibility, available in major U.S. retailers including Lowe’s, Walmart, and Hobby Lobby.

Through “Matte Coffee Bean,” Krylon reaffirms that true luxury in modern design lies in calm, connection, and natural harmony — much like coffee itself, which offers warmth and serenity amid the pace of everyday life.

A Pinch of Salt: The Viral Trick Changing How Coffee Lovers Balance Flavor

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Dubai – Qahwa Wolrd

A growing online trend is convincing coffee drinkers to rethink their morning ritual — not with new beans or gadgets, but with a grain of salt.

Social media users claim that adding a small pinch of salt to coffee softens its bitterness and enhances its natural sweetness, making it smoother without sugar or cream. The method varies: some mix salt directly into the brewed cup, others stir it into the water or sprinkle it over the grounds before brewing.

According to food specialists, the science behind this hack is straightforward. Sodium ions interact with taste receptors on the tongue, reducing the perception of bitterness without covering up flavor. Research has shown that small quantities of salt can balance the taste of bitter compounds and highlight sweet notes, especially in dark-roasted coffees.

Food scientist Ed McCormick explains that salt affects the way our taste buds respond to bitter molecules: “A touch of sodium suppresses bitter flavors and brings forward hidden sweetness — all without added sugar.”

Professional baristas agree that moderation is essential. Two-time U.S. champion Heather Perry notes that while salt can mellow harsh notes, too much will distort the intended flavor. “High-quality beans already offer balance,” she says. “Salt can help with low-grade or over-roasted coffee, but it can also mask what makes specialty beans unique.”

Some users claim that salted coffee aids hydration, but nutrition experts dismiss the idea. Registered dietitian Janelle Bober explains that the effect of a single pinch of salt is negligible and does not offset coffee’s mild diuretic nature. She adds that those with kidney or blood-pressure issues should avoid excess sodium, though the small amounts used in this trend are typically harmless.

For anyone trying to reduce sugar or calories, salt provides flavor without adding fat or sweetness.

While new to many Western drinkers, the idea of salting coffee has deep cultural roots. In Turkey, it holds symbolic meaning in traditional engagement rituals. Vietnam’s beloved ca phe muoi (salted coffee) combines espresso, sweetened condensed milk, and salted cream. Taiwan’s cafés popularized “sea-salt coffee,” and in Nordic regions, salt has long been added to balance mineral-rich water.

Even contemporary cafés are experimenting with it. Some craft beverage makers incorporate salt into syrups and signature drinks to intensify flavor complexity. Beverage developer Caitlin Burke says, “Like in cooking, a bit of salt amplifies what’s already there — it deepens and rounds the flavor.”

Though the internet has repackaged it as a viral “hack,” the practice is centuries old — a simple act of culinary chemistry rediscovered. For coffee enthusiasts seeking a smoother, more balanced cup, the answer may truly lie in a pinch of salt.

Finnish Company Paulig Files Applications to Register Five New Trademarks in Russia

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Finnish coffee producer Paulig has filed applications to register five new trademarks in Russia, according to data available in the Rospatent electronic database.

The applications were submitted on October 15 by OY Gustav Paulig Ab, listed as the official applicant. The company reportedly plans to market ground, instant, and roasted coffee, as well as coffee in bags and capsules, under the new trademarks.

Paulig had previously announced its withdrawal from the Russian market in March 2022, following the beginning of the special military operation in Ukraine. By May 2022, the company had completed the sale of its Russian business to Vikas Soin, a private investor from India who acquired Paulig Rus LLC.

Earlier, in November 2021, Paulig had also halted the supply of its popular Santa Maria spices and sauces to Russia, which were part of the company’s broader product portfolio.

Meanwhile, other international brands have taken similar steps. The Spanish group Inditex, which owns Zara and Bershka, has also re-registered its trademarks in Russia, valid until 2035, even though it ceased operations in the country in 2022.

U.S.-Made Coffee Remains More Expensive Than Imports Despite Tariffs

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Throughout 2025, U.S. consumers have witnessed a steady rise in prices across nearly all goods following the administration’s decision to impose tariffs on imported products from global trade partners. Coffee has been no exception, even though the United States relies almost entirely on imported beans to satisfy domestic demand.

Data shows that coffee prices rose by 14.5% between July 2024 and July 2025, while roasted and packaged coffee in supermarkets increased by 21.7% between August 2024 and August 2025. These price hikes are largely attributed to tariffs affecting major coffee-producing nations such as Brazil, which supplies around 40% of the world’s coffee, and Vietnam, the second-largest global exporter.

Despite rising international prices, coffee produced within the United States remains significantly more expensive — a trend unlikely to change. Coffee cultivation requires specific geographical and climatic conditions found only in limited areas of the country, most notably Hawaii, where the right soil and altitude allow for small-scale production of high-quality beans. Even so, the total domestic yield accounts for barely 1% of what Americans consume annually.

Experts in both agriculture and finance agree that the United States lacks the natural and environmental capacity to achieve self-sufficiency in coffee production, even if domestic and imported prices were equal. Consumption far exceeds what local producers can supply, and expanding cultivation faces both economic and ecological constraints. The country’s main coffee-growing regions — Hawaii and Puerto Rico — can only cover a fraction of nationwide demand.

While tariff policies are intended to strengthen local industries and reduce reliance on imports, coffee remains a clear exception. Natural limitations make large-scale domestic production unfeasible, and imported coffee continues to be more affordable and abundant despite higher tariffs. Analysts conclude that the American coffee market will remain deeply tied to global supply chains — particularly to producers in Brazil, Vietnam, and Ethiopia — regardless of future policy changes or tariff increases.