Category: News

Rainforest Alliance Launches First Regenerative Agriculture Certification for Coffee

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Dubai, 9 September 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Rainforest Alliance has announced the launch of the world’s first dedicated regenerative agriculture certification for coffee, a milestone that seeks to transform farming practices from simply reducing harm to actively restoring ecosystems and improving farmer livelihoods. The new “regenerative” seal is expected to appear on consumer coffee bags starting in 2026.

This initiative follows the release of version 1.4 of the Sustainable Agriculture Standard, which will take effect in October 2025. The revised standard reduces the number of requirements from 221 spread across seven categories to 148 requirements consolidated into three, making certification more straightforward for farmers while maintaining its credibility. Alongside this streamlining, certificate holders now have the option to add 17 regenerative requirements to their existing certification, or to pursue a standalone regenerative certification consisting of 119 requirements focused on soil health, biodiversity, water management, climate resilience, and farmer livelihoods.

The Rainforest Alliance has framed regenerative agriculture as a shift beyond a “do no harm” mindset toward one of repair and restoration. The new certification aims to make coffee part of an ecological recovery process that benefits both the land and the farming communities that depend on it. The organization emphasized that every future cup of coffee should give back more than it takes. A recent report by TechnoServe supported this view, finding that the transition to regenerative agriculture in key coffee-producing countries could significantly increase exports and raise farmer incomes.

Implementation of the new certification has already begun in coffee farms across Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Nicaragua. The first coffees carrying the regenerative seal are expected to reach international markets in 2026, targeting consumers who increasingly demand sustainable and credible products. The launch also coincides with sector-wide initiatives such as RegenCoffee, introduced by the Global Coffee Platform to create a common language around regenerative agriculture, further strengthening Rainforest Alliance’s leadership in this field.

Beyond the environmental and social dimensions, the development comes at a critical moment as the European Union’s deforestation-free supply chain law (EUDR) is set to take effect on 30 December 2025. The law will require companies to prove that commodities entering EU markets are not linked to deforestation. Observers note that the regenerative certification could provide companies with an essential tool to comply with these new requirements, especially in the coffee sector, which faces growing regulatory scrutiny.

Despite the enthusiasm, there are concerns that additional certification layers could impose extra burdens on smallholder farmers who already struggle with limited resources. The Rainforest Alliance has responded by stressing that the new standard was developed over years of research and consultation with farmers, companies, and civil society groups. The goal, it said, is not to increase burdens but to build long-term resilience and open new opportunities for market access.

By combining the streamlined Sustainable Agriculture Standard with the launch of the first regenerative certification for coffee, the Rainforest Alliance is signaling a strategic shift in its vision. The initiative goes beyond traditional sustainability frameworks, aiming to create a new agricultural model that balances environmental protection, agricultural economics, and social development. With this step, the global coffee sector enters a new chapter in which every cup of coffee is not just a beverage, but a contribution to restoring the planet and securing a more sustainable future.

Specialty Coffee Consumption in the United States Reaches Record High

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Washington, September 9, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Fall 2025 National Coffee Data Trends report, published by the National Coffee Association, shows that specialty coffee consumption in the United States has reached its highest level on record. Fifty-seven percent of Americans reported drinking specialty coffee at least once in the past week, a figure that matches the highest level ever recorded and confirms that specialty coffee has become a central part of everyday life across the country.

The report also highlights the strong role of younger generations, with forty-six percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 24 saying they consumed specialty coffee on the day before the survey was conducted, the highest daily rate since 2020. Analysts attribute this trend to the integration of younger consumers into modern coffee culture, their preference for higher quality and innovative experiences, and the growing popularity of coffee-related social events that encourage sharing and discovery.

The study notes that new preparation methods are fueling this growth. Cold brew consumption rose to seventeen percent, an increase of three percentage points compared with the start of the year, while ready-to-drink coffee beverages reached nineteen percent, up four points. These figures reflect the American consumer’s attraction to options that combine convenience and freshness, particularly during warmer months.

Industry observers say the expansion of specialty coffee consumption opens new opportunities but also presents challenges. Large chains are benefiting from the growth of app-based orders and drive-thru services, while independent cafés and roasters are finding their strength in providing higher quality products, origin transparency, and stories of sustainability. This balance between convenience and authenticity is expected to shape the future of the U.S. coffee market.

The significance of this growth is underscored by the size of the overall industry, valued at 343 billion dollars. Specialty coffee is no longer just a matter of personal taste or social trend but a powerful economic sector in its own right. With rising consumer awareness of origin, production methods, and environmental certifications, specialty coffee is expected to continue strengthening its position both domestically and internationally.

The findings suggest that the United States has moved beyond the so-called third wave of coffee, which focused on artisanal preparation, and is entering a new phase that blends quality with convenience and social experience. For a new generation of consumers, coffee is no longer simply a morning beverage but an evolving lifestyle choice that reflects broader shifts in consumer culture.

Pret A Manger Aims to Double UK Stores Following Strong 2024 Growth

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Pret A Manger is preparing for a major expansion across the UK after reporting robust growth in 2024.

The London-based coffee and food-to-go chain, which currently operates 500 stores in the UK and another 200 across 20 international markets, achieved 10% year-on-year revenue growth in 2024, reaching £1.2bn ($1.6bn). Adjusted EBITDA rose 36% to £98m ($133m).

Chief Executive Pano Christou, who has led the JAB Holding-backed business since 2019, said Pret aims to double its UK footprint to 1,000 outlets by focusing on city centres and transport hubs. “Customers love the brand on the go. Our travel business has really exploded in recent years. We have eight locations at Heathrow and will add two more next year,” he told reporters.

Pret ended 2024 with 717 outlets across 21 global markets. Alongside its expansion plans, the chain will introduce new value-driven offerings, including a £6-£7 ($8.14-$9.50) lunchtime meal deal trial in the UK. The initiative, already successful in France, is expected to boost sales and afternoon footfall.

The company has also launched a premium ‘Super Plates’ salad range in 250 UK stores and overhauled its Club Pret subscription, scrapping its five-coffees-a-day offer for £30 ($38.99). Additionally, a new store format targeting dine-in and family groups has been unveiled in its home market.

Beyond the UK, Pret is seeking significant growth in the US, where it operates 70 stores generating approximately $100m annually, mainly in New York. Christou highlighted transport hubs along the East Coast as the primary focus for expansion. In October 2023, Pret signed a joint venture with franchise partner Dallas International to triple its US footprint by 2029, and in July 2025, it appointed former Tim Hortons executive Felipe Athayde as President of its North America business.

“2024 was another year of growth for Pret, where we took disciplined decisions to protect sales despite intense pressures on the hospitality industry. Our priority now is to drive transactions and sustainable growth by offering great value for Pret customers,” Christou said.

Brazil Dryness Ahead of Flowering Period Boosts Coffee Prices

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Dubai, September 8, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Coffee prices surged today, with December arabica futures rising by +9.65 cents per pound (+2.58%) and November robusta contracts climbing +$119 per ton (+2.76%). The rally comes as severe dryness in Brazil’s coffee-growing regions raises concerns about yields ahead of the critical flowering period. Meteorology agency Somar reported that Minas Gerais, Brazil’s largest arabica-producing state, received no rainfall during the week ending September 6.

Additional support came from Brazil’s crop forecasting agency Conab, which cut its 2025 arabica crop estimate by -4.9% to 35.2 million bags, down from 37 million bags projected in May. Conab also lowered its total coffee production forecast for 2025 by -0.9% to 55.2 million bags.

Meanwhile, the International Coffee Organization (ICO) reported that global coffee exports in July fell -1.6% year-on-year to 11.6 million bags, while cumulative exports for October through July were down -0.3% at 115.6 million bags.

Tighter stocks at the ICE exchange are also supporting prices. ICE-monitored arabica inventories dropped to a 1.25-year low of 686,863 bags last week before slightly rebounding to 692,766 bags. Robusta inventories remain close to a 1.5-month low at 6,552 lots.

U.S. supplies are under additional pressure from trade measures. American buyers have begun canceling contracts for Brazilian beans following the imposition of 50% tariffs on imports, tightening supply as about one-third of U.S. unroasted coffee comes from Brazil.

Harvest progress in Brazil is also influencing prices. Cooxupé, the country’s largest coffee cooperative, reported that its members’ harvest was 94.9% complete by August 29. Separately, Safras & Mercado estimated the national 2025/26 crop at 99% complete by August 20, with robusta fully harvested and arabica 98% complete.

Export data shows a sharp decline. Brazil’s Trade Ministry reported that unroasted coffee exports in July fell -20.4% year-on-year to 161,000 tons. Exporter group Cecafe said green coffee exports were down -28% to 2.4 million bags, with arabica shipments falling -21% and robusta plunging -49%. Total shipments from January through July dropped -21% to 22.2 million bags.

Vietnam, the world’s second-largest coffee producer, also faces challenges. Its 2023/24 crop fell -20% to 1.472 million tons, the smallest in four years, while 2024 exports dropped -17.1% to 1.35 million tons. However, January–August 2025 exports rose +7.8% year-on-year to 1.141 million tons. The Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association reduced its 2024/25 output estimate to 26.5 million bags, down from 28 million bags.

Looking ahead, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) projects global coffee production for 2025/26 to rise +2.5% to a record 178.7 million bags. Arabica output is expected to fall -1.7% to 97 million bags, while robusta production is forecast to grow +7.9% to 81.6 million bags. Ending stocks are projected to climb +4.9% to 22.8 million bags. However, trading group Volcafe warns of an -8.5 million bag global arabica deficit in 2025/26, compared with a -5.5 million bag deficit in 2024/25—marking the fifth consecutive year of shortages.

Organic Coffee Market to Reach USD 30.5 Billion by 2033, Growing at 8.5% CAGR

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Dubai, September 8, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The global organic coffee market is on track to more than double in value, rising from USD 15.2 billion in 2024 to USD 30.5 billion by 2033, according to a new report by Verified Market Reports. The study highlights a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2026 to 2033, driven by shifting consumer preferences and evolving market dynamics.

Key Growth Drivers

The rise in demand for organic coffee is propelled by several factors:

  • Health and premiumization: Increasing awareness of health benefits and demand for high-quality certified organic Arabica and specialty blends.

  • Sustainability and ethics: Growth in ethically sourced products and investments in organic farming practices.

  • Digital traceability: Use of blockchain and QR codes for provenance and storytelling, enhancing consumer trust.

  • Climate challenges: Weather-related disruptions are reshaping sourcing strategies and spurring investment in regenerative agriculture.

  • Market channels: Expansion of direct-to-consumer (DTC) and ready-to-drink (RTD) organic products, supported by subscription models and e-commerce.

  • Regulatory and regional shifts: Stricter certification standards and rising demand in Asia-Pacific, particularly in China, Japan, and South Korea.

Market Challenges

Despite strong growth, the market faces hurdles such as high certification costs for smallholders, limited availability of high-yield organic varietals, and climate-driven yield variability. Industry experts suggest that pooled certification, cooperative financing, and agronomy support programs could help overcome these barriers while strengthening supply chains.

Regional Outlook

North America and Western Europe remain the largest importers and consumers of organic coffee, but Asia-Pacific is projected to record the fastest growth. Increasing consumption in emerging economies, coupled with regulatory changes, is expected to reshape trade flows and create new competitive dynamics.

Industry Players

Major companies shaping the market include Jim’s Organic Coffee, Rogers Family, Death Wish Coffee, Grupo Britt, Strictly Organic Coffee, Dean’s Beans Organic Coffee, Keurig Green Mountain, Allegro Coffee, Café Don Pablo, Grupo Nutresa, and Oakland Coffee, among others. Their strategies revolve around premium positioning, digital traceability, and diversified product portfolios.

Market Segmentation

The report categorizes the organic coffee market by product type (whole bean, ground, instant, pods/capsules), roast type (light, medium, dark, blended), distribution channel (online retail, supermarkets, specialty stores, convenience stores, direct sales), end-user demographics (health-conscious, environmentally-conscious, income and age groups), and formulation (single-origin, blends, flavored, decaffeinated).

Banana Coffee: From 1970s Korean Banana Milk to Today’s Global Coffee Trend

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Dubai, September 8, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Strange at first glance yet irresistible in taste, banana coffee is the latest drink captivating coffee lovers worldwide. While many assume it is a brand-new invention born on social media, this quirky yet comforting beverage has its roots in 1970s South Korea, when banana milk became a national icon. Today, the drink is enjoying a renaissance as it sweeps across cafés, kitchens, and digital platforms globally.

A nostalgic beginning: Banana milk in Korea

The story of banana coffee cannot be told without tracing back to 1974, when the Korean food company Binggrae launched banana-flavored milk. At the time, the government sought to promote dairy consumption in the aftermath of war, and bananas were rare and expensive. Blending banana flavor into milk made the product aspirational, fun, and nutritious.

Banana milk quickly became part of Korean childhood and culture. By 2010, Binggrae was selling around 800,000 bottles per day, and total sales exceeded 5.3 billion bottles. As the Korean Wave (Hallyu) spread worldwide, banana milk also traveled abroad. In the U.S., Japan, and Southeast Asia, the drink became a hit, fueled further when BTS’s Jungkook was spotted drinking it in viral clips. Exports jumped from 700 million won in 2010 (~$509,000 USD) to 15 billion won in 2013 (~$10.9M USD), cementing banana milk as a global product.

From banana milk to banana coffee

This cultural legacy laid the foundation for banana coffee. Just as orange, cherry, and berry notes have long been associated with specialty coffee, banana found its place as a natural complement.

The ripe fruit’s natural sweetness and creamy texture soften the bold bitterness of coffee, producing a balanced, smooth drink. Beyond flavor, bananas add real health benefits: potassium, fiber, and blood-sugar regulation, making banana coffee both indulgent and wholesome.

The digital boom and viral moment

Banana coffee’s recent explosion owes much to TikTok and Instagram, where short videos showcasing frothy banana lattes and iced banana coffees have gone viral.

According to Yelp, consumer interest has skyrocketed:

  • Searches for “banana bread latte” rose 6,267% year-over-year.

  • “Banana latte” searches climbed 1,573%.

  • “Banana coffee” itself surged 348%.

What started as quirky user-generated content quickly evolved into a mainstream movement, as people across the globe experimented with recipes and shared their creations online.

From indie cafés to corporate giants

Independent cafés in Asia, Europe, and North America have been quick to put banana coffee on their summer menus. But larger players are also joining the trend. Starbucks, for example, has begun testing a banana-flavored protein cold foam in select markets, positioning banana coffee as more than just a fleeting fad.

Flavor experts explain its appeal: banana adds natural sweetness and body without overpowering coffee’s complexity. It offers nostalgia for those familiar with Korean banana milk while introducing novelty for global audiences.

Easy recipes to try at home

One reason for banana coffee’s global popularity is how easy it is to prepare at home.

  • Quick Iced Banana Latte: Dissolve 2 tablespoons of instant coffee in a splash of hot water. Add ice cubes, pour in about 10–12 ounces (300 ml) of banana milk, and shake vigorously. The result is creamy, frothy, and café-quality with almost no effort.

  • Classic Espresso Latte with Banana Milk: Pull two shots of espresso with your favorite beans. Add a teaspoon of sugar if desired, stir in the hot espresso, then add ice. Top with banana milk, stir again, and enjoy a smooth, layered drink perfect for warm afternoons or after dinner.

These simple recipes make the trend accessible to anyone, regardless of whether they own an espresso machine.

A bridge between nostalgia and modernity

Banana coffee is more than just a quirky social media hit. It represents the blending of nostalgia with innovation. Rooted in Korea’s 1970s banana milk culture, the drink now resonates with a generation that craves both authenticity and novelty. Its nutritional edge, viral appeal, and commercial adoption suggest it could remain on menus far longer than typical internet fads.

As global coffee culture continues to evolve, banana coffee stands as proof that sometimes the most unexpected combinations deliver the richest stories — and the most refreshing flavors.

Shocking Discovery: Just One Cup of Coffee May Reduce Donor Blood Quality

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Dubai, September 8, 2025 (Qahwa World) – A groundbreaking study published in Haematologica has revealed that caffeine, the world’s most widely consumed stimulant, can significantly reduce the quality of stored donor blood, potentially limiting the benefits of transfusions for patients.

The research, based on data from more than 13,000 blood donors, examined caffeine levels and their impact on red blood cell function during storage. The results showed that blood taken from donors with high caffeine exposure was more fragile and less effective after transfusion. The cells demonstrated depleted energy reserves such as adenosine triphosphate, reduced levels of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate, and increased oxidative stress markers, making them more prone to breakdown.

The study further revealed that not all donors were affected equally. Negative effects were especially pronounced among individuals carrying variants of the ADORA2b gene, which regulates how red blood cells adapt to low oxygen. When caffeine blocks this receptor, stored blood deteriorates faster, resulting in weaker clinical outcomes for transfusion recipients.

Laboratory experiments confirmed that caffeine’s harm operates on two fronts: first, by blocking ADORA2b signaling, and second, by directly inhibiting glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, a key enzyme responsible for red cell antioxidant defenses. This dual mechanism leaves cells more vulnerable to oxidative stress and shortens their survival after transfusion.

The health implications are significant. With more than twelve million units of blood transfused annually in the United States alone, even small reductions in blood quality can have widespread consequences. Encouragingly, caffeine is a modifiable factor. Because of its short biological half-life, abstaining from coffee or caffeinated drinks for even a single day before donation may improve blood quality. Some European countries already advise donors to avoid caffeine, while in the United States and Italy it is sometimes encouraged to help raise blood pressure temporarily, easing the donation process.

Researchers, led by Professor Angelo D’Alessandro of the University of Colorado, emphasize that these findings highlight the need for a more personalized approach to transfusion medicine. In addition to blood type, factors such as lifestyle and genetic background should be considered to ensure the highest quality units are directed to patients most at risk, such as infants or individuals with severe anemia.

The paradox is striking: the same mechanisms that make caffeine harmful for stored blood may explain its appeal to athletes. A modest increase in oxidative stress can stimulate adaptation in the body, improving endurance. But inside blood banks, this effect translates into weaker units and reduced potential to save lives.

Why Coffee Prices Are Rising — And What It Means for Consumers?

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Dubai, September 4, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Coffee drinkers around the world are paying more than ever for their daily brew. In the United States, the price of ground roast coffee reached $8.41 per pound in July, a record high and a 33% jump from last year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Prices for all types of coffee, including instant and roasted, were also up 14.5% year-on-year in July. That made coffee the second-fastest rising item in the consumer price index, just behind eggs.

This sharp increase is the result of three main factors: extreme weather in producing countries, falling inventories, and new trade tariffs on Brazil, the world’s largest coffee exporter.

Weather shocks

Coffee is highly sensitive to climate conditions. Even small changes in weather can damage the crop and reduce yields.

Brazil, which produces about 40% of the world’s coffee, has faced a mix of severe drought and heavy rains in recent seasons. Experts call this pattern “precipitation whiplash.” The plants first suffer from lack of water, then get too much, leaving beans of lower quality and lower quantity.

Vietnam, the second-largest producer, had a similar problem. Its coffee production dropped by 20% in 2024 due to drought. Later, heavy rains caused further damage to the harvest.

“Coffee plants are very sensitive to their environment,” said Mike Hoffmann, professor emeritus at Cornell University. “Drought weakens the plants, then excess water comes in and harms the quality and the yield.”

Trade tariffs

On top of weather problems, trade policy is adding more pressure. The Trump administration imposed 50% tariffs on Brazilian coffee, which could keep prices high in the U.S. and other markets.

A report by the International Coffee Organization (ICO) warned in August that these tariffs would place “upward pressure” on global prices, especially since the U.S. imports about 32% of its coffee from Brazil.

Still, analysts believe big chains can manage the cost better than small buyers. For example, Starbucks might only need to raise prices by 0.5% or less to cover the tariff cost, thanks to its large size and strong purchasing power.

Low inventories

For the past few years, many coffee companies chose to run down their existing stockpiles instead of buying beans at higher market prices. As a result, global inventories are now at very low levels compared with history.

According to a Bernstein research report, when inventories are low, the market is more exposed to sudden shocks. If demand rises or if another supply problem hits, prices can spike very quickly.

Prices and consumption

The way consumers feel the price increase depends on how they buy their coffee.

At grocery stores, coffee prices usually follow commodity prices more closely. When wholesale prices go up, supermarkets often raise prices quickly. When prices fall, they may use discounts and promotions to attract shoppers.

In coffee shops and restaurants, prices are less volatile. Chains like Starbucks or Dunkin’ may take longer to pass higher costs on to customers, since they can spread out the impact across many products and markets.

Short-term and long-term outlook

Some relief could come in the short term. Better weather and new investment in farming productivity may help bring prices down slightly. Sustainable farming methods and technology could also improve efficiency and stabilize supply.

But the long-term picture is more worrying. Climate change is expected to bring more frequent droughts, floods, and extreme weather events. These patterns will continue to hurt production in major coffee regions.

“The prices will continue to go up, in my mind,” Hoffmann said. “Climate change isn’t going away. The severity of droughts, flooding — all of that will get worse. And it’s not just coffee. It’s the whole food supply.”

What it means for the future

The global coffee market is heading toward more uncertainty. Consumption is still growing worldwide, but production is struggling to keep up due to climate, economic, and political challenges.

This means consumers should expect coffee prices to stay higher than average in the coming years, with possible spikes whenever new disruptions occur. For farmers and producers, the situation may bring both risks and opportunities. Those who adopt technology, invest in climate-resilient farming, and improve supply chains may be able to thrive in a difficult environment.

For everyday coffee drinkers, the “morning cup” may remain affordable at big chains for now, but at-home brewers are likely to keep seeing bigger swings in grocery store prices.

Registration Opens for the Saudi AeroPress Championship 2025

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Riyadh, September 7, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Sulalat Coffee has officially opened registration for the 9th edition of the Saudi AeroPress Championship, set to take place in October 2025. The competition is expected to attract a wide field of coffee enthusiasts and professionals from across the Kingdom.

This year’s poster design draws inspiration from outer space, symbolizing ambition, exploration, and the pursuit of new horizons. Just as Saudi Arabia aspires to lead globally in space sciences, the championship aims to place the Kingdom firmly on the world coffee map—where passion meets skill and creativity meets innovation.

Qualifiers and Final

The qualifiers will begin on October 4, 2025, across eight Saudi cities:

  • Riyadh: Sulalat

  • Jeddah: Kaffa

  • Khobar: Sloop

  • Jubail: Latte Works

  • Buraidah: Caffeine Club

  • Madinah: Kaffa

  • Abha: Khotwat Jaml

  • Tabuk: C&B

The official coffee of the competition will be roasted by Edmi Roastery, while the final will take place on October 11, 2025, at Piccolo Roastery in Riyadh, where the new Saudi Champion will be crowned and earn the honor of representing the Kingdom at the World AeroPress Championship.

Saudi Arabia entered the global AeroPress stage in 2016, when Mohammed Alghamdi became the country’s first champion and represented the Kingdom at the world finals in Dublin. Since then, the Saudi AeroPress Championship has grown into a highly anticipated annual event, showcasing national talent and fostering a thriving specialty coffee culture.

In the most recent edition in 2024, Mohammed Aldakhilallah claimed the national title, joining the ranks of Saudi champions who have proudly carried the Kingdom’s name onto the international stage.

The Saudi AeroPress Championship has become a key platform for discovering local talent and propelling them to the global arena. Known for its spirit of creativity and innovation, the competition allows participants to craft unique recipes and flavors using the AeroPress. The judging process relies on blind tasting, ensuring fairness, transparency, and that victory is based solely on taste and quality.

Through this championship, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position in the global coffee community—not only as a consumer nation but also as a stage for competition, innovation, and excellence in specialty coffee.

Countdown Begins for the 8th Iranian AeroPress Championship 2025

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Dubai, September 7, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Iranian coffee community is preparing to host the 8th Iranian AeroPress Championship, which will take place from September 19 to 21, 2025, at Bamland Recreation Complex in Tehran, bringing together coffee enthusiasts and professional brewers from across the country.

The championship has become one of the most prominent national events for specialty coffee lovers in Iran, offering the winner the opportunity to represent the country at the World AeroPress Championship finals.

Competition Rules

  • Registration cancellations are only allowed up to seven days before the start of the championship; no requests will be accepted afterward.

  • Registration fees are non-refundable once paid.

  • Participants must arrive at the venue at least one hour before the start of the competition.

  • Official announcements and updates will be published exclusively through the official Instagram page of AeroPress Iran: @iranianaeropress.

Every year, Iran hosts a variety of specialized coffee competitions, including Barista Championships, Latte Art contests, Brewing competitions, and the AeroPress Championship. Competitors from across the country take part, enjoying both the spirit of friendly competition and the opportunity to sharpen their skills.

The Iranian Women Coffee Association also plays a vital role in supporting and encouraging female participation in all coffee competitions. This consistent support provides women with invaluable motivation and self-confidence, further strengthening their presence in the specialty coffee scene both nationally and internationally.

Oman Coffee Community Announces the AeroPress Championship 2025

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Muscat, September 7, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Oman Coffee Community has officially announced the launch of the Oman AeroPress Championship 2025, set to take place from October 3 to 4 at Rozna Hall in Muscat. The highly anticipated competition promises two days of excitement, creativity, and skill, where coffee enthusiasts and professionals will compete for the national title and the chance to represent Oman at the World AeroPress Championship finals.

The event will span two consecutive days: the qualifiers on October 3 and the final showdown on October 4, where the champion will be crowned.
Competitors will face off in head-to-head elimination rounds, with each participant given just five minutes to grind, brew, and present their coffee using the AeroPress brewer. The submissions will be evaluated through a blind tasting process, ensuring impartiality and fairness.

Rules and Regulations

The competition follows the official World AeroPress Championship guidelines, designed to guarantee transparency and equal opportunities. Key highlights include:

  • Format: Multi-round, elimination-style tournament.

  • Time limit: Five minutes per competitor for the complete process.

  • Brewer specifications:

    • Only AeroPress Original or AeroPress Clear are permitted.

    • Use of the Flow Control Filter Cap is allowed if it is a genuine AeroPress product.

    • Other versions (Go, XL, Premium) are not allowed.

    • Custom-painted or trophy AeroPress brewers are permitted, provided they are original and unaltered.

  • Filters: Any type (paper, metal, cloth, etc.) may be used, as long as it fits inside the cap and does not alter flavor.

  • Ingredients: Only ground coffee and water are permitted. If official coffee or water is provided by the host, competitors must use them exclusively.

  • Dosage: Maximum of 18g of ground coffee, with a minimum output of 150g of brewed coffee.

  • Accessories: Grinders, kettles, scales, stirrers, thermometers, WDT/RDT tools, chillers, and other brewing aids are permitted, provided they do not violate the brewer specifications.

The Judging

Judges will taste each entry blind, with competitor names hidden to ensure neutrality. Each judge makes an independent decision without discussion, pointing simultaneously to their preferred cup on a synchronized count of three. In case of a full tie, the Head Judge makes the final decision after tasting all entries.

Registration

The registration fee is set at 12 OMR + 5% (total 12.6 OMR). Registration is confirmed only after payment and submission of the receipt via the official form. Participants are required to provide their full details, including civil number, email, and contact number. The full competition rules and regulations can be found here.

The winner of the Oman AeroPress Championship will secure the honor of representing the Sultanate at the World Finals. Should the champion be unable to attend, eligibility will pass to the runner-up, then the third-place competitor. This ensures Oman’s representation on the international stage, reinforcing the country’s growing presence in the specialty coffee community.

The World AeroPress Championship was launched in 2008 in Oslo, Norway, with only three competitors. It quickly grew into a global event, now held across dozens of countries and attracting thousands of participants each year. The championship is unique in being open to everyone — both professionals and amateurs — making it one of the most popular and inclusive competitions in the world of specialty coffee.

Roasted and Soluble Coffee Exports Decline in July 2025

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Dubai, September 6, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The International Coffee Organization’s (ICO) August 2025 report has revealed a significant decline in exports of both roasted and soluble coffee in July, underscoring new challenges facing the global coffee sector as it navigates volatile prices, shifting demand, and rising production costs. The data highlights not only pressure on green coffee but also on finished products that reach consumers directly, raising concerns about structural changes in the industry.

According to the report, roasted coffee exports fell by a dramatic 63%, reaching only 30,000 bags compared to 81,000 bags in July 2024. This steep contraction marks one of the sharpest drops in recent years for a category that reflects direct consumer demand for value-added coffee products. Soluble coffee exports also registered a decline, albeit more modest, down 5% to 1.08 million bags from 1.13 million bags a year earlier. While less severe, the slowdown in soluble exports is significant because this category has long been considered one of the most resilient and widely consumed segments in global markets, particularly in emerging economies.

Analysts attribute the decline in roasted coffee exports to several interlinked factors. The most immediate is the surge in global coffee prices, with the ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) climbing by 14.6% in August to 297.05 US cents per pound, its highest level since 2024. Such historic price levels have curbed demand for high-cost roasted products, especially in advanced markets such as Europe and North America, where consumers are already grappling with inflation and higher living expenses. At the same time, exporters face mounting challenges from rising production and shipping costs. Energy, labor, and logistics expenses have all increased in recent months, eroding margins and forcing some companies to scale back international shipments in favor of local markets where conditions are more stable.

For soluble coffee, the 5% drop highlights a different dynamic. Traditionally, this segment has thrived in developing and price-sensitive markets due to its affordability and convenience. Yet even here, demand appears to be shifting. In mature markets, growth has slowed as consumers gravitate toward specialty coffee and fresh roasted options, reflecting a broader trend toward quality and experience rather than convenience alone. In competitive producing countries such as Vietnam and India, rising production capacity has intensified rivalry, putting pressure on exporters to maintain prices and market share. Younger generations in many countries are also seeking more diverse coffee experiences, leading to gradual erosion in the dominance of instant coffee.

The decline in both roasted and soluble exports has broader economic implications. It signals that pressure in the coffee sector is not limited to green coffee or raw supply but extends throughout the value chain. Combined with the ICO’s data showing global coffee stocks at their lowest level since April 2024, the contraction in finished product exports adds another layer of vulnerability to a market already characterized by price volatility and supply uncertainty. Experts warn that if these trends persist, the industry could face an extended period of turbulence, with higher prices for consumers and tighter margins for producers.

Still, opportunities remain in certain regions. Demand for soluble coffee continues to expand in parts of Africa and Asia, albeit at a slower pace, offering some relief for exporters. However, regulatory challenges such as the upcoming EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), set to take effect at the end of 2025, are expected to add new hurdles for suppliers attempting to maintain access to key European markets. For roasted coffee, niche segments such as specialty blends and locally branded products may offer pathways to sustain growth, but producers will need to adapt quickly to changing consumer preferences.

The ICO emphasized that roasted and soluble coffee exports should be monitored closely as indicators of global consumption trends. If the declines seen in July extend over the coming months, it could mark the beginning of a deeper shift in how coffee is traded and consumed worldwide. In that scenario, volume alone would no longer be the main metric of success; value-added innovation, consumer engagement, and adaptability to regulatory and market changes would become critical to survival. For now, the combined 63% plunge in roasted coffee exports and the 5% drop in soluble shipments serve as a stark reminder that the challenges facing the coffee sector go beyond farms and warehouses and reach all the way to the consumer’s cup.