Category: News

Turkish Coffee: From UNESCO Heritage to Istanbul Coffee Festival 2025

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Turkish coffee is more than just a drink—it is history in a cup. Once at the heart of the Ottoman Empire, this centuries-old tradition is now making a global comeback, captivating coffee lovers far beyond Turkey’s borders.

When we think of coffee today, it might be an espresso, a latte on the go, or a cold brew. But the story of coffee begins with something older, richer, and far more ritualistic: Turkish coffee. It is not just a beverage but a 500-year-old tradition, a cultural bridge, and even honored by UNESCO as part of humanity’s living heritage.

Turkish coffee is about sharing moments. While it can be enjoyed alone, its essence lies in conversation and connection. Coffee’s story began in 15th-century Yemen among Sufi mystics, who drank it to stay awake during long prayers. The Turkish coffee method later took shape in 16th-century Istanbul, where it spread from Ottoman coffeehouses across the world.

A debate still lingers: some claim Turkish coffee is the same as Greek coffee, but many see it as an Ottoman legacy. What makes it unique is the method. It isn’t brewed but cooked slowly in a small copper pot called a cezve, then served in tiny cups alongside water and Turkish delight. The experience doesn’t end with the last sip—coffee grounds are often used for fortune readings, a playful way to share hopes and laughter.

Even today, Turkish coffee is tied to tradition. In some households, a bride-to-be serves her suitor a salty cup to test his patience before marriage. While it never reached the global fame of espresso, Turkish coffee is finding new admirers, from workshops in London to fortune readings in New York.

UNESCO Recognition

In 2013, UNESCO inscribed “Turkish coffee culture and tradition” on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The recognition celebrated not only the brewing method but also the rituals of hospitality, storytelling, and cultural identity associated with this practice. The listing confirmed Turkish coffee’s role as more than a drink: it is a living heritage passed down through families and communities.

Istanbul Coffee Festival 2025

This September, the conversation about Turkish coffee gains renewed momentum with the 11th Istanbul Coffee Festival, held from September 11–14, 2025, in Kadıköy on the Asian side of the city. The festival has become a landmark event in global coffee culture, bringing together roasters, baristas, brands, artists, and coffee enthusiasts from across the world.

Amid tastings, workshops, and cultural performances, Turkish coffee will take center stage. Organizers often highlight its UNESCO heritage status as part of the festival narrative, reminding visitors that this is not just a drink but a tradition recognized as part of humanity’s collective memory. From demonstrations of the cezve technique to fortune-reading sessions, the event celebrates Turkish coffee as both a timeless custom and a modern attraction.

More Than Caffeine

Ultimately, Turkish coffee is not about the caffeine kick—it is about slowing down, connecting with others, and savoring a shared ritual. As Istanbul hosts thousands of visitors this September, the festival becomes more than an exhibition: it is a living showcase of a heritage that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.

Five centuries after its birth, Turkish coffee remains what it has always been: a story waiting to be discovered at the bottom of a cup.

Costa Coffee on the Edge of Sale: Losses in the UK, Growth in Asia

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Dubai – August 31, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Six years after acquiring Costa Coffee for £3.9 billion, Coca-Cola is now reviewing its strategic options for the chain in cooperation with investment bank Lazard. The review may result in a sale for around £2 billion, implying a near-£1.9 billion loss. Early talks with investors, including private equity firms, are underway, with indicative offers expected in autumn 2025.

The move reflects Coca-Cola’s disappointment with Costa’s performance and raises broader questions about its ambitions in the global coffee sector.

In the United Kingdom, Costa’s core market, results have fallen short of expectations. Revenues in 2023 stood at £1.22 billion, lower than the £1.3 billion recorded in 2018, while profits turned into a pre-tax loss of £9.6 million. The decline has been attributed to inflationary pressures, record-high coffee prices at the end of 2024, reduced urban footfall, and increased competition from specialist coffee chains and independent cafés. Despite these challenges, Costa still maintains a strong footprint with more than 2,800 stores in the UK and Ireland, plus over 14,000 Costa Express machines, the most profitable part of its business.

In India, Costa tells a different story. For fiscal year 2025, revenues jumped 30.7% to ₹198.5 crore, while profits rose 28.4% to ₹149.7 crore. Store count expanded from 179 to 220, with plans to add 40–50 new outlets annually in high-traffic locations such as airports and malls. Margins, however, faced slight pressure: the gross margin slipped from 76.8% to 75.4%, and average daily sales per store fell from ₹33,000 to ₹27,000. Still, India is now one of Costa’s top ten global markets, with ambitions to rank among the top five within five years.

In China, Costa has shifted strategy away from rapid store expansion toward operational quality, local product innovation, and stronger presence in convenience channels and self-service. With around 400 stores, Costa faces brand awareness challenges and high staff turnover but continues to see potential in localized offerings such as coconut-flavored coffee and milk tea variations.

In Central Europe, the chain has undergone restructuring. Lagardère Travel Retail now operates 115 stores in Poland and 10 in Latvia, following closures of underperforming outlets. In the United Arab Emirates, Costa has expanded to more than 150 stores, with a strong presence in airports, shopping centers, and fuel stations.

Meanwhile, Coca-Cola’s own financials remain robust. In Q2 2025, net income rose to $3.81 billion, compared with $2.41 billion in the same period last year, supported by pricing strength and cost discipline. Looking ahead, the company projects revenues of $55.1 billion and earnings of $14.8 billion by 2028, reflecting annual revenue growth of 5.4%. Analysts believe any divestment of Costa would be strategic rather than financial, as Coca-Cola continues to focus on higher-growth, higher-margin categories such as sugar-free soft drinks and value-added dairy.

Costa Coffee Market Comparison

Market Store Count Revenue (Latest Fiscal Year) Financial Status
UK & Ireland ≈ 2,800 stores + 14,200 Express machines £1.22 billion (2023) £9.6 million pre-tax loss
India 220 stores ₹198.5 crore (2025) +30% revenue, +28% profit growth
China ≈ 400 stores Not disclosed Repositioning toward convenience & self-service
Poland 115 stores Not disclosed Restructured under local operator
Latvia 10 stores Not disclosed Managed by Lagardère Travel Retail
UAE 150+ stores Not disclosed Strong presence in airports & malls

Coffee Prices Surge to Global Highs as Brazil’s Weather and U.S. Tariffs Reshape the Market

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Dubai, August 31, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Coffee has become the world’s fastest rising commodity in August, outpacing metals, energy resources, and construction inputs, as global markets respond to a rare convergence of adverse weather in Brazil, shifting trade policies, and evolving consumer demand.

According to data from ICE Futures, CME Group, and the Shanghai Metal Exchange, robusta prices soared by 1.5 times in August, while arabica rose by 29%. Bloomberg reports that arabica futures in New York reached their highest levels in two months, fueled by repeated cold fronts and light frosts across Brazil’s key coffee regions, including Sul de Minas and Cerrado. Analysts warn that these weather patterns not only threaten the current crop but could also limit the 2026 harvest, as premature stress flowering has already been observed. Michael McDougall of McDougall Global View noted that the market is increasingly anxious about Brazil’s ability to maintain stable output under such conditions.

The rally in prices has also been accelerated by short-term trading dynamics. Harry Howard, broker at Sucden Financial, explained that sluggish export flows from Brazil and reports of frost in growing areas prompted traders to close short positions, adding momentum to the price surge. On August 19, the most actively traded arabica futures contract rose by 2.6%, marking its longest streak of gains since April. Bloomberg data further confirms that exchange-monitored coffee stockpiles are dwindling, placing additional pressure on futures prices.

At the same time, U.S. trade policy has intensified volatility. Washington’s imposition of a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods, including coffee, has forced many American buyers to delay shipments despite holding adequate inventories for the short term. Reuters reports that arabica prices on the ICE exchange jumped by more than 30% in August following the tariff decision, while Brazilian exporters warned of mounting financial strain due to disrupted pre-shipment financing. The Wall Street Journal highlighted that this trade barrier could prolong instability in coffee pricing, with Brazilian retail markets already beginning to feel the effects of rising raw bean costs, up 25% in a single month.

Despite these pressures, global production forecasts remain cautious. Coffee Trading Academy estimates Brazil’s 2025–2026 harvest at 63.9 million 60-kg bags, down 2.1% from last year. Rabobank’s August market update echoed this outlook, citing a 13% month-on-month increase in conilon (robusta) prices and a 4% rise in arabica as evidence of tightening supply chains and mounting weather risks. Meanwhile, May shipping data showed Brazilian robusta exports down by nearly 80%, with total global exports falling 3.1% year-to-date.

The impact of rising coffee prices is also evident at the consumer level. Nielsen data reveals that between June 2024 and May 2025, retail sales of instant coffee fell by 4.9% in volume, while overall coffee sales rose by 1.3%. This indicates that consumers are increasingly turning away from lower-cost soluble coffee toward capsule, ground, and filter varieties, even as overall demand for coffee continues to expand. Bloomberg notes that younger demographics, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are driving demand in the premium instant segment, while companies like Nestlé are adapting with innovative products such as customizable coffee concentrates.

Comparisons across the wider commodity market underscore the exceptional performance of coffee. While neodymium rose 20%, lithium 9.2%, and molybdenum 7.7%, traditional energy and construction inputs saw sharp declines. Gasoline prices on the New York Mercantile Exchange fell by 13.2%, WTI crude by 8.5%, Brent crude by 8%, lumber by 19.2%, and copper by 18.3%. Against this backdrop of broad declines, coffee stands alone as the commodity dominating headlines with its explosive price trajectory.

The global coffee market now finds itself at the crossroads of climate stress, geopolitical friction, and shifting consumer expectations. Rising futures, higher retail costs, and constrained supply chains are placing new burdens on producers, roasters, and consumers alike. While markets remain volatile, one fact is clear: coffee has cemented its position as both an economic powerhouse and a cultural necessity, with its future shaped by forces that extend far beyond the cup.

Faisal Abdu Saeed Al-Tahri: The Hero of Al-Udayn and Guardian of Yemeni Coffee

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Ibb – August 30, 2025 – (Qahwa World) — In Wadi ‘Annah of Al-Udayn District, where terraced fields rise against the mountain slopes, stands Faisal Abdu Saeed Al-Tahri, known locally as Al-Mahlawi. With determination rooted as deep as his coffee trees, he refuses to let a centuries-old legacy fade. His annual harvest may amount to only 40–50 kilograms, but each bean carries the story of Al-Udayn — a story that has gifted the world a coffee unlike any other.

Despite drought, the absence of modern irrigation, and the high costs of cultivation, Al-Tahri is intent on expansion, not retreat. He plans to plant 500 new seedlings over the next two years. Achieving this goal, however, requires real support, for he lacks the means to build water reservoirs or install irrigation systems. His effort is more than a personal endeavor; it is a model for safeguarding Yemen’s coffee and turning individual resilience into collective success.

Al-Udayn: Valleys Between Mountains and Water

Al-Udayn, in Ibb governorate, is one of Yemen’s most fertile and striking regions. It is home to Wadi Al-Dur and Wadi ‘Annah, two beating hearts of Yemeni coffee. Within these valleys, two distinct coffees thrive:

  • Mountain coffee: grown at higher altitudes, producing small beans with concentrated, complex flavor.

  • Valley coffee: cultivated along streams and under shade trees, softer in taste and smoother on the palate.

This balance of mountain and valley has given Al-Udayn coffee its singular identity. Here, coffee is not merely a crop — it is heritage. Local historians even suggest that the very name Al-Udayn is linked to the stem of the coffee plant.

From Al-Udayn to Mocha: A Journey That Changed History

Al-Udayn was never isolated. It was part of the supply network that sustained the historic port of Mocha. From its valleys, caravans carried beans across rugged terrain to the coast, where they were shipped abroad. In the mid-15th century (around 1450), the first Yemeni coffee left Mocha, and the word Mocha became synonymous with coffee worldwide.

Enduring Testimonies

In 1587, historian Abdul Qadir Al-Jaziri wrote in Umdat al-Safwah fi Hal al-Qahwa:
“As for the origin of coffee, it is from the lands of Yemen — from Aden, Zabid, Sana’a, Mocha, and others.”

In 1573, German physician Leonhard Rauwolf described coffee for Europeans for the first time:
“A black beverage like ink, sold in Yemen, beloved by the people, useful for stomach ailments.”

And in the 17th century, Ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi observed:
“In the mountains of Ibb and Al-Udayn are coffee farms that dazzle the eyes, and their people live by this precious crop whose fame spread across horizons.”

These accounts are more than documentation; they are a testament that what Al-Tahri cultivates today is part of a heritage that once transformed global history.

Our Visit to Faisal Al-Tahri

Our visit to Faisal Al-Tahri was not just a meeting with a farmer but a glimpse into the living history of Al-Udayn. Through his determination, he mirrors the perseverance of hundreds of farmers who struggle to preserve coffee against drought, neglect, and the spread of competing crops such as qat, which has consumed large areas of farmland.

He embodies the broader story of Yemen itself: a land that gave coffee to the world and continues, through its devoted farmers, to offer an enduring lesson in resilience.

Faisal: The Face of the Present, the Banner of the Future

Al-Tahri’s humble smile never leaves his face, and his care for his centuries-old trees reflects the Yemeni farmer’s deep bond with the land. Coffee for him is no longer just a crop — it is a struggle for survival against drought, lack of support, and the encroachment of other crops threatening Yemen’s agricultural identity.

In Faisal Abdu Saeed Al-Tahri, Al-Udayn is personified: its fertile valleys, its towering mountains, and its historic link to Mocha, the port that shipped the world’s first coffee. He is the present rooted in the past, cultivating for the future a legacy that endures under one name: Al-Udayni Coffee.

Vietnam Coffee Industry Poised to Benefit from Global Price Surge

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HANOI – August 30, 2025 (Qahwa World) — Vietnam’s coffee industry is moving to capitalize on soaring global prices, with exports recording strong growth and experts urging greater investment in processing and branding to ensure long-term sustainability.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Vietnam’s coffee export turnover reached more than $560 million in July, bringing the total export value for the first seven months of 2025 to $3.6 billion. This represents a 20 percent year-on-year increase and underscores the industry’s ability to leverage favorable international conditions.

The growth comes amid a rally in global coffee prices. A study by the Food and Agriculture Organization reported that prices rose globally by about 40 percent in 2024, driven by unfavorable weather conditions linked to climate change. Production declines in Brazil, Colombia, and Indonesia reduced global supply, while demand in Europe, the United States, and Asia continued to expand.

A strong market position
Vietnam is the world’s largest exporter of Robusta coffee, accounting for around 40 percent of the global market. This dominance, combined with stable supply, gives the country a competitive edge at a time when many producers are struggling with weather disruptions.

Nguyen Nam Hai, president of the Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association, emphasized that “the international coffee market has never been as favorable as it is now. With high prices, strong demand, and Vietnam’s reliable supply, the industry is in an advantageous position.”

However, Hai and other experts caution that to take full advantage of these conditions, Vietnam must expand into deep processing and value-added products instead of relying primarily on raw bean exports.

Processing gap remains wide
While exports are rising in value, the structure of Vietnam’s coffee trade remains heavily skewed toward raw beans. Deep-processed coffee, including roasted, instant, and specialty products, currently accounts for just 12–15 percent of total exports. This is significantly lower than in Brazil and Colombia, where processed coffee represents 30–40 percent of total shipments.

Industry leaders say this gap leaves Vietnam vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. Le Hoang Diep Thao, founder and chief executive of King Coffee, told local media that investing in processing allows companies to “multiply the value of their products significantly.”

But she acknowledged that the financial barriers are steep. Instant coffee production technology alone requires capital investments running into hundreds of billions of dong, which many small and medium-sized enterprises cannot afford. In addition to high costs, technological limitations and branding weaknesses continue to slow progress.

Technology and branding challenges
Large enterprises such as Vinacafe, Trung Nguyen, and Nestlé have invested in processing facilities, but many smaller businesses lack the technological capacity to compete. The industry’s processing base remains uneven, particularly in the specialty coffee and instant coffee segments.

Branding is another critical challenge. Internationally, Vietnam is recognized for its export volume, but its consumer brands have yet to achieve significant recognition. Global buyers often associate coffee with well-known international names such as Starbucks from the United States, Lavazza from Italy, or Nestlé from Switzerland. This lack of global brand presence makes it harder for Vietnamese processed coffee to compete in premium markets.

Agricultural economist Dinh Van Thanh warned that “if Vietnam continues to depend mainly on raw exports, it will remain only an ingredient supplier for large multinational corporations.” He stressed the need for a long-term national strategy to boost processing capacity and to build a recognized coffee brand that can stand alongside global competitors.

Positive signals from the industry
Despite these challenges, signs of progress are emerging. Trung Nguyen Legend has been expanding its instant coffee exports to markets in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Vinacafe has shifted focus toward developing sales within the ASEAN region. Meanwhile, several start-ups in Lam Dong and Gia Lai are working to establish specialty coffee brands targeting premium consumers in Japan and South Korea.

Rather than exporting raw beans, some of these start-ups are partnering with international buyers to roast and process coffee locally before shipping it abroad. According to Thao, this model doubles the selling price compared to raw beans while also ensuring farmers receive higher incomes.

Strategic recommendations
Industry specialists believe that to maintain momentum and secure its place in the global market, Vietnam must adopt a three-pronged strategy.

First, investment in deep processing technology must be accelerated. Government support through preferential credit policies could play a crucial role in enabling businesses to acquire the necessary machinery and production lines for instant and specialty coffee.

Second, Vietnam must prioritize the development of a strong national coffee brand. Experts point to models such as Thailand’s Jasmine rice and Colombia’s Arabica coffee, both of which have achieved global recognition. A similar effort in branding would enhance Vietnam’s visibility and competitiveness on the international stage.

Third, attention should be directed toward emerging markets such as the Middle East, South Asia, and Eastern Europe, where demand for coffee is growing rapidly. These regions present opportunities for processed Vietnamese coffee to establish new distribution channels and expand market share.

At a turning point
With international coffee prices at record highs and global consumption continuing to rise, Vietnam’s coffee sector stands at a turning point. The ability to move beyond raw exports and build a stronger international identity could define its future role in the global coffee trade.

As industry experts stress, Vietnam now faces a critical choice: remain a bulk supplier of raw beans, or transform into a producer of high-value, branded coffee products that command a stronger position in world markets.

British Study: Hot Drinks Contain the Highest Levels of Microplastics

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London – August 28, 2025 (Qahwa World) – A peer-reviewed study from the University of Birmingham has found that everyday hot beverages—especially tea and coffee—contain the highest concentrations of microplastics among popular drinks tested, raising fresh questions about packaging, preparation practices, and real-world exposure. The paper, published in Science of the Total Environment, analysed 155 widely available drinks sold in UK supermarkets and coffee shops and is the first to assess human exposure via total beverage intake rather than water alone.

Researchers reported microplastics in every sample. Hot tea recorded the highest average concentration at 60 ± 21 particles per litre, followed by hot coffee at 43 ± 14 particles per litre. By comparison, iced tea averaged 31 ± 7, iced coffee 37 ± 6, fruit juices 30 ± 11, energy drinks 25 ± 11, and soft drinks 17 ± 4 particles per litre. Detected particle sizes ranged from 10 to 157 μm. The study also found a statistically significant difference between hot and cold beverages, indicating that temperature enhances the leaching of microplastics from packaging into drinks.

Packaging emerged as a critical factor. The authors highlight that higher temperatures increase microplastic release from packaging and that plastic packaging contributes to the contamination observed in beverages. In hot coffee served in disposable paper cups with polypropylene (PP) caps, PP microplastics predominated—strong evidence that cup materials are a primary source. Similar packaging-linked patterns appeared for iced products sold in PET bottles.

Beyond quantifying contamination, the study models realistic exposure by combining laboratory results with a survey of UK adults’ daily drink consumption. The estimated daily intake via total beverage consumption averages 1.6–1.7 microplastic particles per kilogram of body weight per day for men and women, respectively—a materially higher figure than previous estimates based on water alone. The authors conclude that focusing exposure assessments solely on tap or bottled water underestimates total intake because other beverages contribute substantially.

Contextualising these results, the research team notes that prior work by the same group measured broadly similar microplastic levels in UK tap and bottled water, underscoring that the higher counts now seen in hot tea and coffee represent an additional exposure pathway. The paper also synthesises evidence from multiple countries showing packaging and handling as recurring factors—ranging from release from tea bags to particles in soft drinks—while emphasising the novelty of testing a broad range of hot and cold beverages from a single market and pairing those measurements with consumption data.

Mechanistically, the findings are consistent: heat accelerates the transfer of particles from polymer-lined cups and lids, while materials such as PP, PET, polystyrene, polyethylene, and others appear across drink categories, mirroring common packaging choices. The authors cite previous studies that similarly link high temperature to increased microplastic release and demonstrate that both container material and product format (for example, single-use cups or PET bottles) shape the polymer “fingerprint” detected in the drink.

Public-health implications, while still being delineated by the broader scientific community, are clear enough to prompt the study’s call for more comprehensive risk assessments and policy responses. The authors characterise this work as a critical step toward understanding real-life exposure and urge regulators and industry to consider the combined effects of packaging materials, preparation conditions, and consumption habits when setting guidelines to limit human exposure.

The Birmingham team underscores limitations that likely make their exposure estimates conservative. Analytical methods in this study quantified particles ≥10 μm; smaller microplastics and nanoplastics—potentially more bioavailable—were outside detection limits. Nevertheless, with microplastics present across all categories tested and highest in hot beverages integral to daily routines, the evidence base now more firmly indicates that the act of making and serving hot drinks in common packaging can materially influence what ends up in the cup.

For consumers and producers alike, the study’s takeaway is practical: materials and temperature matter. For policymakers, the message is systemic: exposure assessments built solely on drinking water do not reflect the way people actually consume liquids. As the authors conclude, more accurate, comprehensive, and realistic exposure studies are needed to support effective environmental and public-health interventions.

Source: University of Birmingham, “Synthetic microplastics in hot and cold beverages from the UK market: Comprehensive assessment of human exposure via total beverage intake,” Science of the Total Environment 996 (2025) 180188.

SCA Unveils Slate of Candidates for 2026–2028 Board of Directors and Appoints 2nd Vice President

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Dubai – August 28, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has announced the official slate of candidates for its 2026–2028 Board of Directors election, alongside the appointment of the association’s new 2nd Vice President. The announcement was made by Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA, in an address to members worldwide.

The nominations, which follow an extensive interview and review process led by the Nominating Committee chaired by SCA Board President Garfield Kerr, bring together three prominent industry leaders:

  • Emi-Beth Aku Quantson, CEO and Chief Caffeination Officer at Kawa Moka Coffee Company

  • Rob Stephen, Managing Director of Covoya Specialty Coffee

  • Daryanto Witarsa, Co-Founder of Common Grounds Coffee and Catur Coffee Company

A Diverse and Influential Slate

Emi-Beth Aku Quantson has redefined Ghana’s coffee sector by creating value across the supply chain. Through Kawa Moka, she sources premium Robusta from rural farmers—mainly women—roasts it locally, and develops eco-innovations such as turning coffee waste into skincare products. A PwC alumna and Fortune Magazine-featured entrepreneur, she has received international recognition for her pioneering role in African agribusiness and youth empowerment.

Rob Stephen, with over 35 years in specialty coffee, is the Managing Director of Covoya Specialty Coffee. A former SCAA President and Coffee Kids President, Stephen has deep expertise in retail, roasting, quality, standards, and international coffee trading. As a Q Grader instructor and representative at the ISO Council on coffee standards, he is known for his leadership in global quality protocols and supply chain optimization.

Daryanto Witarsa, a central figure in Indonesia’s specialty coffee movement, co-founded Common Grounds Coffee and Catur Coffee Company, helping shape modern coffee culture in the region. As President of the Specialty Coffee Association of Indonesia (SCAI) and Advisor at the Coordinating Ministry of Food Affairs, he has championed Indonesian producers globally. He also played a key role in hosting World of Coffee Jakarta 2025 and has mentored leading baristas such as 2024 World Barista Champion Mikael Jasin.

Appointment of the 2nd Vice President

In addition to the election slate, the SCA Board of Directors has appointed Jiyoon Han, Co-Owner of Bean & Bean Coffee in New York, as the association’s new 2nd Vice President. Han, a Licensed Q Grader and Harvard MBA, is recognized for her work on gender equity and technology in coffee, as well as her jury service at Cup of Excellence competitions across Latin America. Alongside her mother, Rachel, she has built Bean & Bean into a multi-channel coffee business spanning retail, ecommerce, and wholesale.

With Han’s appointment, the officer group of the SCA Board for 2026 will consist of:

  • Andrew Tolley (Tolley Coffee & Tea), President

  • Nadine Rasch (Primavera Coffee), Vice President

  • Jiyoon Han (Bean & Bean Coffee), 2nd Vice President

  • Cosimo Libardo (Nomad Coffee Consulting), Treasurer

Election Process and Next Steps

The SCA Board of Directors, comprising 15 volunteer members serving three-year terms, plays a pivotal role in guiding the global coffee industry. For the 2025 election cycle, three seats are open. The final ballot will be released on October 13, 2025.

If the number of candidates exceeds the available seats, voting will take place from November 1–30, 2025. Ballots will be distributed via eBallot, the third-party company managing the process, from the email [email protected]. Members are encouraged to add this address to their contacts to avoid missing their ballot.

More details on the election process, candidate biographies, and frequently asked questions are available on the SCA’s elections page: sca.coffee/board/elections.

Starbucks Malaysia Suffers Record Annual Losses as Boycotts Persist

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Kuala Lumpur – August 28, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Starbucks’ Malaysia operator, Berjaya Food Berhad, has announced the heaviest losses in its history as customer boycotts linked to the Israel–Gaza conflict continued to weigh on sales and consumer sentiment. The group reported a net loss of RM 292 million ($69 million) for the year ending 30 June 2025, more than triple the losses of the previous year. Fourth-quarter results also reflected the downturn, with losses exceeding RM 185 million ($44 million), the worst quarterly outcome since the company was listed on Bursa Malaysia in 2011.

Revenues were similarly affected, dropping 36% year-on-year to RM 476.77 million ($113 million), while fourth-quarter sales fell 10% to RM 115.9 million ($27.5 million). Berjaya cited the prolonged boycotts as the main reason behind the decline, noting that the shift in consumer behavior has significantly impacted Starbucks and other US-based foodservice brands operating in Malaysia. The group was also compelled to scale back its Starbucks network, reducing its outlets from 408 to 320 stores over the past year, while making impairment provisions on assets due to the downsizing.

The financial damage reflects a wider backlash in Malaysia against American brands, with chains such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC also facing boycotts. The trend has reshaped spending patterns in the majority-Muslim country, where consumer sentiment toward US companies has been severely weakened.

Globally, Starbucks is grappling with similar pressures, recording weaker results in several key markets. The brand has faced revenue declines in Europe and the Middle East alongside falling like-for-like sales across its 17,200 US outlets. Franchise partners have also been hit, with Alsea in Europe reporting five consecutive quarters of falling sales, while Kuwait-based Alshaya Group abandoned plans to sell a minority stake in its Starbucks franchise business earlier this year.

Despite the downturn, Berjaya is moving to diversify and expand. Beyond Starbucks, the group operates Paris Baguette, Kenny Rogers Roasters, and Krispy Kreme in Malaysia, and has been widening its international footprint with new Starbucks licenses in Denmark, Finland, and Iceland, where it opened its first store in July 2025. Berjaya is also looking to grow its Paris Baguette operations, with franchise agreements in place to bring the bakery-café chain to Thailand, Brunei, and the UAE.

World Barista Championship Turns 25 in Milan: Applications Now Open

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Milan – August 28, 2025 (Qahwa World) — The World Barista Championship (WBC) is marking a historic milestone this year as it celebrates its 25th anniversary at HostMilano in Milan, Italy. From October 17–21, 2025, the global coffee stage will once again spotlight innovation, talent, and passion, bringing together more than 50 national champions to compete for the world title.

What started in 2000 with just 14 baristas in Monte Carlo has now grown into the world’s most prestigious coffee competition. Over a quarter of a century, the WBC has defined modern barista culture, inspired innovation across the industry, and created a platform where champions set the tone for the global specialty coffee movement.

To mark this landmark edition, the World Coffee Championships (WCC) is inviting skilled professionals to apply as Calibration Baristas or Emcees. These roles are essential in ensuring the highest competition standards and delivering a seamless championship experience.

Calibration Baristas support Judge Certification and Calibration events by performing competition-level routines multiple times, helping align scoring standards across the judging panel. Applicants must have competed at least once in a national or world-level competition, possess two competition-ready routines, and demonstrate strong organizational skills and adaptability.

Emcees, meanwhile, take on the role of guiding audiences through the event, ensuring that the stories of competitors and the spirit of the championship are conveyed to spectators both in person and online.

The 25th edition of the WBC will not only crown a new champion but also celebrate the baristas and judges who have shaped coffee history over the past two decades. Audiences can join live at HostMilano or follow the competition online, ensuring global access to the world’s biggest coffee stage.

Applications for Calibration Baristas and Emcees are open for a limited time. More details, including eligibility requirements and deadlines, are available on the official website: wcc.coffee.

Matcha Gains Momentum as Hospitality Embraces Ritual and Wellness

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Dubai, August 27, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Matcha is fast emerging as one of the most influential beverages in the global hospitality industry. Once rooted in the centuries-old tea traditions of Japan, it has now been adopted worldwide as a drink that symbolizes wellness, sustainability, and cultural sophistication. For hotels, cafés, and specialty bars, it is no longer just an alternative to coffee, but a statement of values that align with modern consumer expectations.

In recent years, the pace of change in beverage menus has accelerated. Consumers are increasingly seeking options that provide not only refreshment but also meaning. Matcha, with its history and ritualized preparation, has stepped into that space. It is being served not only in traditional bowls but also as lattes, iced beverages, and innovative cocktails, offering versatility that fits seamlessly into contemporary hospitality.

“Matcha speaks to a deeper need, the desire to slow down and reconnect, even in the midst of a busy day,” said Fabiola Ruggiero, Founder of Cose di Tè. “Its preparation is a quiet ritual. Its flavor is bold, complex, vegetal. It engages the senses — and invites a moment of presence.”

Unlike conventional teas, which are steeped and discarded, matcha is consumed in its entirety. Finely ground from shade-grown leaves, it is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and slow-release caffeine. This makes it especially appealing to younger generations and professionals seeking calm focus and sustained energy without the spikes often associated with coffee. Nutrition experts also point to its role in supporting wellness trends that emphasize balance and mindfulness.

Ruggiero underlined that matcha is more than a healthy beverage. “It’s rare to find a product that unites health benefits, aesthetic appeal, and storytelling potential. Matcha does all three. That is why it resonates so deeply with today’s guest.”

The storytelling element is particularly relevant for the hospitality sector. By presenting matcha as part of an intentional ritual — where preparation tools are visible, tasting notes are offered, and pairings such as mochi or shortbread are served — operators can elevate the guest experience. Small details, such as presenting matcha with a focus on authenticity and care, are increasingly being recognized as defining aspects of modern luxury.

For venues, the commercial logic is clear. Matcha introduces new revenue streams during off-peak hours, appeals to customers seeking non-coffee options, and positions businesses as forward-thinking. The drink’s vibrant green color and striking presentation also add visual impact in an era where social media presence influences customer decisions. “Matcha is where ancient tradition meets future-conscious living,” Ruggiero said. “It is an invitation to pause, to reconnect, to choose differently.”

Technology is also playing a role in ensuring consistency and quality in matcha-based beverages. The Eagle One machine by Victoria Arduino has been engineered with Steam-by-Wire technology to guarantee precise temperature stability, energy efficiency, and responsive steam control. For baristas, this ensures that milk-based matcha drinks achieve the silky microfoam and balance that complement, rather than overpower, the delicate tea. Such precision has become increasingly important as venues adapt to growing demand for plant-based alternatives such as oat or almond milk.

The integration of matcha into menus reflects a broader shift in hospitality, where tradition and innovation work hand in hand. On one side, the centuries-old ritual of whisking green tea powder into water continues to carry cultural significance. On the other, modern design, technology, and hospitality concepts are helping to reintroduce matcha to new audiences in ways that feel relevant and accessible.

As the global beverage industry adapts to rapid change, matcha has moved far beyond being a temporary trend. Its combination of heritage, health benefits, versatility, and cultural narrative places it firmly at the intersection of wellness and hospitality innovation. For operators seeking to meet evolving consumer expectations, it represents not just another option on the menu, but a strategic choice that signals purpose and progress.

Coffee Prices Surge as ICE Inventories Hit Multi-Year Lows

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai, August 27, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Coffee markets staged a sharp turnaround by Wednesday’s close, with both arabica and robusta futures rallying strongly as dwindling ICE inventories and tightening export flows outweighed harvest pressure from Brazil. The rebound highlights the volatility gripping global coffee trade, where supply constraints and policy shifts continue to drive rapid intraday price swings.

On the ICE exchange, December arabica coffee (KCZ25) jumped +13.00 (+3.49%), while November robusta (RMX25) surged +188 (+4.01%), with robusta touching a three-month high. The rally came just hours after arabica futures had slipped on harvest pressure, underscoring how quickly sentiment is shifting.

ICE-monitored stocks remain a key bullish driver. Arabica inventories fell to a 1.25-year low of 716,578 bags, while robusta dropped to a one-month low of 6,611 lots. Traders say the tightening certified stockpiles are providing strong underlying support, particularly for robusta. At the same time, Brazil’s harvest is almost complete. Cooxupé, the country’s largest cooperative, reported members were 91.3% finished by August 22, while Safras & Mercado estimated 99% of the crop complete, with robusta fully harvested and arabica at 98%. This progress has been weighing on prices, yet the bullish impact of falling inventories and weaker exports is increasingly dominant.

July export figures underline this trend. Brazil’s Trade Ministry reported a 20.4% year-on-year decline in unroasted coffee exports, totaling 161,000 metric tons. Cecafé confirmed a broader contraction, citing a 28% fall in green coffee exports to 2.4 million bags. Arabica exports dropped 21%, while robusta plunged 49%. Shipments for the first seven months of 2025 are down 21% at 22.2 million bags.

Outside Brazil, fundamentals remain tight. Vietnam’s 2023/24 crop fell 20% year-on-year to 1.47 million metric tons due to drought, the smallest in four years. Exports in 2024 declined 17%, though shipments this year have rebounded, rising 6.9% between January and July. At the global level, the International Coffee Organization (ICO) reported June exports up 7.3% year-on-year to 11.69 million bags, though cumulative shipments since October are slightly lower at -0.2%.

Looking ahead, the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) projects record global production of 178.68 million bags in 2025/26, driven by robusta’s 7.9% expansion. Arabica output is expected to contract by 1.7% to 97 million bags. Despite this, Volcafé forecasts a deepening arabica deficit of 8.5 million bags, widening from this year’s 5.5 million, marking the fifth consecutive annual shortfall.

The market’s day-to-day volatility highlights the tension between short-term harvest pressure and long-term structural supply constraints. With U.S. buyers canceling contracts following 50% tariffs on Brazilian coffee, and inventories at multi-year lows, analysts warn the coming months could bring continued turbulence for global coffee prices.

Qahwa World and Ethiopia’s Buna Kurs Forge Landmark Editorial Alliance

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai,Addis Ababa, 27 August 2025(Qahwa World) – In a groundbreaking development for the global coffee industry, Qahwa World of the Middle East and Ethiopia’s Buna Kurs Media have signed a pioneering editorial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), creating a cross-regional alliance that bridges Yemeni coffee heritage, the broader Arab qahwa tradition, and Ethiopia’s buna legacy. These three cultural foundations have shaped coffee’s global history yet remain underrepresented in industry narratives.

The partnership establishes a new model of media collaboration in the coffee sector, centered on shared storytelling, cross-regional representation, and mutual amplification. By connecting Yemen’s pivotal contribution, the Arab world’s cultural continuum, and Ethiopia’s origin story, Qahwa World and Buna Kurs aim to spark new conversations among brands, researchers, donors, media, and investors.

Under the agreement, Qahwa World will serve as Buna Kurs’s editorial partner in the Middle East, amplifying African coffee narratives—including Ethiopia and beyond—to Yemeni and Arab audiences, while Buna Kurs strengthens Qahwa World’s presence in Africa. The collaboration includes joint editorial exchange, event coverage, and advertising opportunities. Together, the two platforms will publish features, interviews, and cultural spotlights designed to challenge conventional narratives, elevate overlooked voices, and create new opportunities for authentic engagement.

“Qahwa World has always sought to honor coffee’s Yemeni and Arab legacy. Working with Buna Kurs allows us to situate that legacy within the broader African origin story, creating a holistic and globally relevant narrative. This is not just about content—it is about shaping the industry’s cultural conscience,” said Ali Alzakary, Founder of Qahwa World.

Tewodros Balcha, Founder of Buna Kurs, echoed the vision: “Coffee has always been more than a commodity—it is a cultural connector. Through this partnership, we are pioneering a new way to tell coffee’s story: one that restores origin narrative.”

At a time when the global coffee industry is grappling with sustainability, equity, and identity, the alliance signals a fresh approach to media and storytelling. By linking Yemen, the Arab world, and Ethiopia, the initiative offers brands, institutions, and investors a platform for authentic cross-continental engagement while opening new doors for responsible promotion, collaborative research, and cultural exchange.

The MoU serves as a framework for broader cooperation, with plans for co-hosted events, thematic campaigns, and joint representation at global industry forums. Both Qahwa World and Buna Kurs are committed to shaping a coffee narrative that reflects heritage, culture, and the evolving challenges of today’s market.

About Qahwa World
Qahwa World is a UAE-based media platform dedicated to Yemeni and Arab coffee heritage. Through journalism, cultural storytelling, events, and partnerships, it bridges traditional qahwa culture with today’s global coffee industry.

About Buna Kurs
Buna Kurs is Ethiopia’s pioneering coffee industry platform, with a curated audience of thousands of stakeholders across Africa. It amplifies Ethiopia’s and Africa’s role in the global coffee narrative.