Category: News

New Global Tool Maps Sustainability Initiatives Across Coffee-Producing Countries

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International Coffee Organization and ITC launch the Coffee Sustainability Support Database (C2SD)

The International Coffee Organization (ICO), in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC) through its Alliances for Action initiative, has officially launched a powerful new digital resource: the Coffee Sustainability Support Database (C2SD).

Designed to enhance transparency, foster global collaboration, and align sustainability efforts across the coffee sector, the C2SD is an interactive platform that maps more than 440 sustainability projects in 49 coffee-producing countries, spanning both public and private initiatives.

💡 Explore the database here:
https://c2sd.ico.org/

A Centralized Platform for Collective Impact

The C2SD is an evolved version of the ICO’s original Coffee Sustainability Map and was co-created by the ICO’s Coffee Public-Private Task Force (CPPTF) – Technical Workstream 3 on Importing Countries – alongside ITC and its Coffee Guide Network, with co-funding from the European Commission and ITC Trust Fund donors.

This platform addresses a longstanding issue in the coffee sector: fragmentation of information. Despite the abundance of sustainability initiatives, the absence of a central reference tool has hindered global coordination, reduced investment efficiency, and limited collective impact.

By consolidating diverse sustainability efforts into one accessible digital map, the C2SD provides a clear overview of who is doing what, where, and how, enabling:

  • Identification of overlaps, gaps, and under-served regions

  • Collaboration and co-investment opportunities

  • Informed decision-making by governments, funders, NGOs, and industry players

  • Acceleration of impact through shared knowledge and strategic alignment

A Public Good for the Coffee Sector

The C2SD is more than a database — it’s a sector-wide resource designed to empower producers, policymakers, and private sector actors to align their efforts toward a fairer and more sustainable global coffee economy.

The platform is also deeply integrated with The Coffee Guide — the ITC’s flagship publication — where sustainability is a central theme of the fourth edition. The Coffee Guide Network helped shape the C2SD by recognizing a crucial need: a shared, up-to-date understanding of sustainability activities across producing countries.

Scope and Reliability of the Dataset

  • 440 sustainability projects

  • Covering 49 coffee-producing countries

  • Time horizon: 2017 to 2027

  • Initiatives from government bodies, multilateral institutions, development agencies, private companies, social investors, and NGOs

Although the data has been carefully reviewed, the C2SD is a living platform. Users are encouraged to submit updates or corrections to help maintain the accuracy and relevance of the map.

📍 Whether you’re a roaster, policymaker, trader, NGO, or researcher — the C2SD is your window into the sustainability landscape of the coffee world.

Strengthening Global Coordination for a Sustainable Coffee Future

As climate challenges intensify, farmer incomes stagnate, and the sector faces mounting social and environmental pressures, the launch of the Coffee Sustainability Support Database is a timely and strategic step forward.

It signals a renewed commitment by the ICO, ITC, and partners to build a coffee sector that is inclusive, transparent, and sustainable — for producers, for businesses, and for future generations.

Good News for Moms-to-Be: Coffee Doesn’t Harm Baby’s Brain Development

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A new scientific study offers reassuring news to expecting mothers: drinking coffee during pregnancy does not negatively impact their child’s cognitive development.

Published in Scientific Reports as part of the China National Birth Cohort (CNBC), the study tracked over 1,400 pregnant women across all three trimesters and later assessed their children’s development at age three using the internationally recognized Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-III).

No Cognitive Risk from Coffee

Researchers found no significant association — positive or negative — between maternal coffee consumption and cognitive, language, or motor skill outcomes in toddlers. Whether the mothers drank coffee in the early months or continued into later stages of pregnancy, their children’s scores remained statistically comparable to those of non-coffee drinkers.

This result held true even after adjusting for factors such as maternal age, BMI, income, education level, smoking status, mental health, pregnancy complications, and breastfeeding practices.

Reassurance for Pregnant Coffee Lovers

This study supports previous findings from major cohorts in Norway and Japan, which also found no adverse impact of moderate caffeine intake — particularly from coffee — on child neurodevelopment. While high caffeine consumption is still discouraged, the evidence suggests that moderate coffee drinking (up to 200 mg of caffeine per day) is safe for most pregnancies.

Tea vs. Coffee: A Notable Difference

Interestingly, the same study observed a slight cognitive benefit in children whose mothers consistently drank tea — especially green tea — during the second and third trimesters. This may be due to the presence of antioxidant compounds like catechins in tea, though researchers caution that exact quantities were not measured.

In contrast, coffee showed no such positive or negative effect, leading scientists to conclude that coffee consumption is neutral in terms of early brain development — neither harmful nor beneficial.

Why It Matters

Pregnant women often receive mixed messages about what to avoid, and caffeine is high on that list. Yet this comprehensive analysis using Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM) — a method that tracks changes in consumption habits over time — adds depth to the conversation, showing that coffee need not be completely off-limits.

Limitations and Future Research

While the results are encouraging, the study was conducted in a single region of China, where coffee drinking is relatively uncommon. The amount of caffeine consumed wasn’t precisely measured, and the findings may not be universally applicable.

Still, the research team emphasized that this is one of the most detailed investigations to date examining the entire trajectory of coffee consumption across pregnancy and its effect on childhood cognitive development.

Final Thought

For moms-to-be who enjoy a daily cup of coffee, this study delivers welcome clarity: there’s no evidence that moderate coffee intake harms your baby’s brain development. As always, it’s best to stay within recommended caffeine limits — but if you’ve been wondering whether to give up your morning brew, science now says: you probably don’t have to.

Zurich Laboratory Detects Intestinal Bacteria in Coffee Machines

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A recent investigation by the Zurich Cantonal Laboratory has revealed hygiene concerns in milk-based drinks dispensed from fully automatic coffee machines. The laboratory found that one in four samples tested contained excessive levels of intestinal bacteria.

The analysis, conducted last year, involved 15 samples collected from various machines located in restaurants, petrol stations, and public spaces. According to the canton’s press release, four of the samples exceeded the acceptable limits for Enterobacteria—microorganisms commonly found in the environment and in the intestines of humans and animals. Certain strains of these bacteria are known to cause gastrointestinal illnesses.

In one additional case, the machines showed elevated levels of aerobic mesophilic bacteria—a diverse group of microbes that also indicate hygiene deficiencies.

While most of these machines use pasteurized or UHT-treated milk, which is nearly sterile upon entry, the issue arises from internal contamination. Germs can thrive in milk residues that remain in the system if cleaning is neglected.

Machine operators were notified and instructed to investigate the causes and implement corrective measures. Follow-up inspections confirmed that no further hygiene limits were breached after these interventions.

This study underscores the importance of regular and thorough cleaning routines for fully automatic coffee machines, especially those that handle milk. Without proper maintenance, even advanced coffee equipment can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Mokha 1450 Triumphs at Transform Awards MEA 2025 with Top Honors in Branding Excellence

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In a moment of well-deserved recognition, Mokha 1450, the specialty coffee brand renowned for its heritage-driven philosophy and support for women coffee producers, has been celebrated at the 2025 Transform Awards MEA Gala with three major accolades for its outstanding brand development.

The Dubai-based coffee house earned Gold awards in both Best Brand Evolution and Best Creative Strategy, alongside a Bronze award for Best Visual Identity in the Food & Beverage category. The honors were presented by Transform Magazine, the global authority on brand strategy and rebranding, which recognizes excellence and innovation in branding across the Middle East and Africa.

These awards mark a significant milestone in Mokha 1450’s journey, spotlighting the brand’s ability to evolve while staying true to its origins. Over the past decade, Mokha 1450 has carved out a unique identity in the specialty coffee sector — one rooted in authenticity, traceability, and empowerment. Its recent brand evolution reflects a deeper alignment between visual storytelling and the brand’s core mission: honoring the legacy of Yemeni coffee and amplifying the voices of women coffee farmers from Yemen, Ethiopia, and beyond.

The creative strategy behind the rebrand, developed in collaboration with brand consultancy Rogue, was praised for its clarity, cohesion, and cultural relevance. Judges commended Mokha 1450’s ability to integrate tradition with modern design, resulting in a brand experience that is as refined as the coffee it serves.

“We are incredibly grateful for this recognition,” the team at Mokha 1450 shared. “It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and purpose-driven storytelling. Our brand is not just about coffee — it is about people, places, and preserving legacy.”

The Transform Awards MEA, now in its 11th edition, has become the benchmark for celebrating the best in brand transformation. Mokha 1450’s success this year places it among the region’s top innovators in consumer branding — a remarkable feat in an increasingly competitive market.

As Mokha 1450 continues to expand its global footprint, these awards underscore its rising influence not only as a coffee brand but as a cultural ambassador for origin-based excellence.

From Oversupply to Strategic Shift: The Coffee Industry Between Challenge and Adaptation

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As prices fall and Robusta exports surge, the world’s coffee market enters a delicate dance between abundance and anxiety. What’s really brewing behind the beans?

For the first time since December 2024, global coffee prices have dipped below the 300 US cents per pound threshold. The June 2025 ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) fell sharply to an average of 295.06 US cents/lb—an 11.8% drop from the previous month. But the price movement is just one piece of a much larger picture: a complex, shifting landscape where oversupply is challenging assumptions and rewriting strategies from São Paulo to Saigon.

Behind the falling prices lies a surprising culprit: abundance. According to the latest USDA estimates, the world is heading for a surplus of 9.32 million bags for the 2025/26 coffee year—on top of an already massive 7.88 million bag surplus from 2024/25. Meanwhile, certified stockpiles have climbed to multi-month highs before dipping slightly, feeding negative sentiment across trading floors.

Even traditionally resilient segments like Colombian Milds saw a drop, while Robusta prices fell dramatically—down 17.5% to 196.21 US cents/lb, breaking below the critical 200 mark for the first time since January 2024. But perhaps most telling is the global export behavior: Robusta shipments surged 20.1% year-over-year in May 2025, with Vietnam increasing its exports by a stunning 87.3%. Indonesia and Uganda followed suit with triple- and double-digit growth.

At first glance, it might appear that Robusta is finally claiming its place at the table—but this isn’t necessarily a triumph. The shift is partly due to Brazil’s normalization after an exceptional season and Vietnam’s recovery from prior drought-driven losses. It’s a short-term reshuffling of cards, not a redefinition of the game.

Meanwhile, Arabica exports, despite comprising 62.9% of total green coffee exports, saw more muted performance. The Colombian Milds group—long viewed as a beacon of quality and stability—suffered its first contraction after 19 months of steady growth. Colombia, the group’s anchor, experienced its second straight monthly downturn.

But the volatility goes beyond numbers. On June 23rd, frost fears in Brazil briefly reignited price spikes—only to quickly subside with improved weather reports. It was a stark reminder of how climate still wields enormous power over coffee’s fate, even in an age of data-driven markets.

The story of this month’s coffee market is not simply about decline—it’s about strategic adaptation. Roasted coffee exports, for example, rose by 46.8% year-over-year, and soluble coffee exports were up 15.4%, with Brazil leading the instant boom. Markets are clearly trying to adjust by adding value, diversifying offerings, and leaning into convenience.

So what does this all mean for the coffee industry?

Producers are under pressure to manage surpluses without collapsing prices. Exporters are pivoting toward soluble and roasted markets. Roasters are forced to navigate narrowing price gaps between specialty and commercial coffee, as consumers weigh quality against affordability. And climate still lingers as the great unknown.

In a world where more coffee is not always better, the real winners may be those who learn not just to grow or roast—but to read the market. As the lines between origin, quality, and pricing continue to blur, the ability to anticipate and adapt is becoming the industry’s most valuable currency.

International Coffee Organization: Sharp Decline in Global Coffee Prices and Rise in Robusta Exports

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The global coffee market witnessed a notable downturn in June 2025, as the ICO Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) dropped below the 300 US cents/lb threshold for the first time since December 2024. According to the latest Coffee Market Report by the International Coffee Organization (ICO), the average I-CIP in June fell to 295.06 US cents/lb, representing an 11.8% decrease from May.

This price decline was largely driven by increased supply pressures, including expectations of a surplus for the 2025/26 coffee year. The U.S. Department of Agriculture forecasts a surplus of 9.32 million bags, following another 7.88 million bag surplus in 2024/25. Additionally, certified stocks of Arabica coffee rose to a nine-month high of 1.85 million bags in May before slightly easing to 1.78 million by the end of June.

Market Breakdown by Variety

All major coffee groups saw price reductions:

  • Colombian Milds fell by 9.0% to 360.08 US cents/lb

  • Other Milds dropped 8.7% to 363.16 US cents/lb

  • Brazilian Naturals declined by 10.9% to 338.53 US cents/lb

  • Robustas experienced the sharpest fall, down 17.5% to 196.21 US cents/lb, dipping below 200 US cents/lb for the first time since January 2024.

On futures markets, London prices sank by 18.4% to 183.21 US cents/lb, while New York prices dropped 10.5% to 329.56 US cents/lb.

Differentials and Volatility

  • The Colombian Milds–Other Milds differential continued to shrink, reaching -3.08 US cents/lb, while the Colombian Milds–Robustas differential rose to 163.86 US cents/lb.

  • Arbitrage between New York and London widened to 146.35 US cents/lb, up 1.9% from May.

  • Volatility across the board declined. The I-CIP’s intra-day volatility averaged 10.2%, down from 11.1% in May. Robusta volatility also dropped, from 11.5% to 10.2%.

Brief Rally Triggered by Frost Concerns

Prices briefly rallied on 23 June due to reports of frost in Brazil’s main coffee-producing regions, São Paulo and Minas Gerais. The I-CIP surged by 3.6% to 288.8 US cents/lb. However, subsequent weather updates mitigated frost fears and halted the rally.

Green Coffee Exports: Robustas Lead the Growth

Global green bean exports in May 2025 reached 11.2 million bags, up 3.5% compared to the same month last year. However, total exports for the coffee year (October–May) were down 3.1% to 81.97 million bags.

  • Robusta exports soared 20.1% to 4.31 million bags, driven by Vietnam (+87.3%), Indonesia (+381.6%), and Uganda (+45.9%).

  • Brazilian Naturals dropped 11.2% to 3.29 million bags, mainly due to Brazil’s cyclical downturn.

  • Colombian Milds fell 3.0%, with Colombia’s exports dropping for the second consecutive month.

  • Other Milds rose 4.2%, supported by strong shipments from Ethiopia and Nicaragua.

Arabicas accounted for 62.9% of total green bean exports in the first eight months of 2024/25, up from 60.8% the previous year.

Regional Export Trends: Asia and Africa Expand, South America Contracts

In May 2025, total exports of all coffee forms rose 4.9% to 12.65 million bags, but year-to-date totals remained 2.3% lower than last year at 91.29 million bags.

  • Asia & Oceania: +48.9% to 4.11 million bags, led by Vietnam and Indonesia.

  • Africa: +33.3% to 2.33 million bags, with Ethiopia and Uganda as primary contributors.

  • Mexico & Central America: +3.8% to 2.13 million bags, boosted by Nicaragua’s 60.8% export rise.

  • South America: -25.7% to 4.08 million bags, driven by a sharp 31.8% drop in Brazil’s exports after a record 50.1 million bags shipped in 2023/24.

Soluble and Roasted Coffee Exports

  • Soluble coffee exports rose 15.4% to 1.33 million bags in May, with Brazil shipping 0.37 million of that total.

  • Roasted coffee exports jumped 46.8% to 0.12 million bags.

Soluble coffee’s share of total exports increased to 10.5% for October 2024–May 2025, up from 9.6% in the previous year.

Stocks and Storage

Certified stocks on the New York exchange declined slightly to 0.91 million 60-kg bags in June, while London stocks of Robusta coffee dropped 4.9% to 0.87 million bags.

Conclusion: Supply Pressures Dominate Outlook

June’s market retreat reinforces the dominance of supply-side factors in shaping global coffee prices. With high certified stocks, robust Robusta exports, and surplus forecasts from USDA, bearish pressure may continue unless major weather disruptions materialize. However, the brief spike triggered by frost concerns in Brazil signals that weather volatility still holds the power to jolt markets in the short term.

As the 2024/25 coffee year progresses, all eyes will remain on Brazil’s harvest, Vietnam’s shipping trends, and evolving consumer demand amid shifting price dynamics.

Rising Prices Blur the Lines Between Specialty and Commercial Coffee

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As global coffee prices remain elevated, the distinction between specialty and commercial-grade coffee is becoming less clear. While specialty coffee has traditionally operated in a different space from commodity coffee, current market dynamics are bringing the two closer than ever before—raising new questions for consumers, producers, and roasters alike.

A Market in Flux

Over the past two years, coffee prices have surged due to a combination of poor harvests in Brazil and Vietnam, low global stockpiles, and increased speculation in commodities markets. In February 2025, green coffee prices hit a record $4.41 per pound, before stabilizing below $3 following improved weather conditions and better-than-expected forecasts.

Despite this slight correction, volatility remains high. Factors such as Middle East tensions affecting shipping routes and potential frost risks in Brazil continue to influence price movements. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), consumers in the European Union and United States will feel the full effects of these spikes within the next 8 to 11 months, with the impact expected to last several years.

Consumer Behavior Shifts

Coffee brands, including major players like JM Smucker and JDE Peet’s, have already raised retail prices multiple times since 2024. Supermarkets are pushing back, but as brands aim to protect margins, further increases are anticipated. In Brazil, supermarket coffee prices have already risen by 40% this year alone.

Such developments are affecting consumer behavior. As prices rise, some consumers switch to cheaper options, reduce consumption, or stop buying coffee altogether—echoing trends seen in other markets, such as eggs in the U.S., where prices quadrupled and over a third of consumers stopped purchasing.

Specialty Coffee in the Spotlight

Although specialty coffee operates outside the C market, it cannot escape the ripple effects. The costs of logistics, green coffee, and financing affect all actors. As Albert Scalla of StoneX Group explains, “When the C market rises, everything goes up—including specialty.”

With commercial coffee prices approaching those of specialty, the value proposition of the latter is being reevaluated. Specialty has long justified its higher price through quality, transparency, and sustainability. But now, in a high-cost environment, many consumers may question: Why not pay a little more for significantly better coffee?

Sam Klein of Partners Coffee notes that for roasters relying on low-cost beans, rising input costs leave few options. “If your only value proposition is that your coffee is cheap, you’re in trouble when cheap isn’t cheap anymore,” he says.

However, not all producing regions are equally affected. Friso Miguel Spoor of Koffie Lente points out that countries like Ethiopia have set cherry prices that provide some insulation. Elsewhere, the pricing flexibility depends on the internal dynamics of cooperatives and exporters.

The Opportunity—and the Challenge

The narrowing price gap presents an opportunity for specialty roasters to attract new customers. By offering smaller package sizes or cost-effective blends, they can introduce quality to consumers who are used to commercial products. A $0.25 to $0.50 increase per cup may be tolerable for many customers if the product quality is noticeably superior.

But this strategy has limits. To cover rising costs, many specialty brands are also increasing prices—potentially discouraging price-sensitive buyers. Additionally, high C prices reduce the incentive for farmers to invest in high-quality lots, as commodity sales may offer easier profits with less effort.

Cash flow becomes another concern. Exporters face challenges in paying producers upfront without confirmed buyers, particularly when prices fluctuate rapidly.

Looking Ahead

Will consumers abandon coffee as prices rise? Not necessarily. But behavior will change. Some may shift to instant or supermarket brands. Others may embrace private labels, which are gaining ground in many markets. Yet, a segment might indeed upgrade to specialty coffee—especially if brands can clearly communicate the added value and experience they offer.

The specialty coffee sector, built on transparency, ethics, and craftsmanship, is at a turning point. Sam Klein sums it up: “It’s an interesting moment. We’ve always told consumers that they can get better coffee while also doing right by farmers. But when cheap coffee is no longer cheap, do we still believe in that mission?”

Limitless X Expands into Global Coffee Sector with Brain-Boosting Instant Blend

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In a strategic move signaling its entry into one of the world’s largest consumer markets, Limitless X Holdings has introduced a new functional coffee product designed to support cognitive performance. The new offering—a nootropic-infused instant coffee concentrate—marks the company’s expansion beyond its established presence in wellness and nutritional supplements into the global coffee and consumer packaged goods (CPG) industries.

The product, marketed as a cognitive-enhancing coffee alternative, is being launched through the company’s subsidiary and is available in concentrated liquid form. It blends Arabica coffee with ingredients known for their potential to support mental clarity, focus, and sustained energy. With this launch, Limitless X positions itself in two high-growth sectors: the $500 billion global coffee industry and the $2.5 trillion CPG market.

A Functional Take on Instant Coffee

The newly launched coffee concentrate is available in a compact 120ml bottle, containing 30 servings. Each serving includes approximately 200 mg of caffeine and is designed to be mixed with hot or cold water or milk. The formula includes a combination of natural compounds such as Maca root extract, Cordyceps mushroom, Guarana, Guayusa, L-Theanine, Noopept, and 5-HTP—compounds often associated with mood support, energy regulation, and mental alertness.

Offered in three flavor profiles—Original, French Vanilla, and Mocha—the concentrate is marketed as vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from added sugars. Instead of traditional sweeteners, monk fruit is used to maintain a low-calorie profile without compromising taste.

Bridging Coffee with Cognitive Wellness

While caffeine remains a core stimulant in coffee products, Limitless X has taken a broader approach by including functional adaptogens and nootropics. This reflects a growing trend in the global beverage sector where consumers are seeking multi-functional beverages that align with health-conscious lifestyles.

Unlike traditional instant coffees or energy drinks that rely primarily on caffeine, this product is designed to deliver a more balanced experience—supporting both mental performance and mood throughout the day without the common crash associated with high-caffeine beverages.

Strategic Market Positioning

The company’s move comes as the coffee industry sees rapid innovation in convenience formats and wellness-driven offerings. Instant coffee products have evolved significantly in recent years, and Limitless X aims to capitalize on that momentum by targeting health-conscious consumers, professionals, and fitness enthusiasts alike.

The coffee concentrate will be distributed through multiple retail and e-commerce channels. According to company representatives, negotiations are underway with retail chains, specialty outlets, and global online platforms to scale availability.

The product’s price is set at $29.95 per bottle, with subscription discounts available. This pricing places it within the premium coffee category, appealing to consumers willing to invest in performance-oriented products.

Part of a Larger Expansion Strategy

The coffee launch is one part of a broader expansion strategy for Limitless X Holdings. While the company is best known for its supplements and wellness products, it is now venturing into areas including global distribution, real estate, and media content—reflecting a diversified approach to lifestyle branding. Upcoming projects include residential wellness communities and health-focused entertainment content.

Jas Mathur, the company’s Chairman and CEO, stated that the move into coffee is part of a vision to offer accessible, science-informed solutions to consumers. He emphasized the importance of combining convenience with functionality in everyday products, calling the launch a “starting point” for further innovation in both the beverage and wellness markets.

Global Market Trends Support Functional Offerings

Consumer trends show growing interest in drinks that offer more than taste—particularly those supporting mental performance, energy, and general well-being. Functional beverages are among the fastest-growing segments in the CPG space, with increased demand for clean-label, low-sugar, and natural ingredient products.

This trend has also influenced the coffee industry, where new entrants and established brands alike are introducing products with added vitamins, adaptogens, and other functional ingredients. The addition of nootropics in coffee is part of this larger evolution.

Final Notes

The new concentrate is available for direct order through the company’s online store. Limitless X reports plans for expanded flavor options, alternative sizes, and product line extensions in the future.

This launch may offer a compelling case study on how wellness brands are reshaping traditional beverage categories. Whether the product will disrupt the market or capture a niche audience remains to be seen, but it reflects a clear signal that health and performance are increasingly central to coffee innovation.

Inside the Roast: Unlock the Secrets of Precision Roasting at the Link Roaster Experience in Dubai

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On July 17, 2025, the Victoria Arduino Experience Lab in Al Quoz, Dubai, will host Inside the Roast: The Link Roaster Experience, an exclusive event that delves deep into advanced coffee roasting. Organized by Nucleus Link in collaboration with Victoria Arduino and Harvestbelt, the session offers a hands-on exploration of roast profiling, live cupping, and brewing excellence.

The art and science of coffee roasting take center stage this July as Dubai’s specialty coffee community prepares for Inside the Roast: The Link Roaster Experience. Set to take place at the Victoria Arduino Experience Lab in Al Quoz on July 17 from 4 PM to 7 PM, the event promises an immersive journey into the world of precision roasting and flavor unlocking.

Organized by Nucleus Link, in partnership with Victoria Arduino and Harvestbelt, the event is designed to help participants master “advanced dialling-in” techniques—transforming raw beans into exceptional brews through intelligent profiling and sensory evaluation.

From live cupping sessions to guided roast curve analysis, attendees will witness how even subtle adjustments in roast parameters can dramatically reshape the coffee experience. The session highlights the capabilities of the Link Roaster system, renowned for its innovation in heat control and real-time data visualization.

“Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just beginning your roasting journey, this is your moment to roast like a world champion,” organizers said. “The event will walk you through how to optimize your roast curve, tailor it to your green coffee, and achieve extraction perfection.”

Each roast will be extracted on Victoria Arduino machines, demonstrating the powerful synergy between elite roasting technology and world-class brewing equipment. Participants will also engage in a flavor exploration to understand how roast development directly impacts taste, body, and complexity in the cup.

The event is open to a limited number of 50 participants, with registration now live via the official Google Form.

Event Details:

  • 📍 Victoria Arduino Experience Lab, Al Quoz, Dubai

  • 📅 Date: 17 July 2025

  • ⏰ Time: 4 PM – 7 PM

  • 👥 Minimum capacity: 50 participants

  • 🎟 Limited seats available

  • 🔗 Register here

With limited seats and high interest expected from Dubai’s thriving coffee community, early registration is strongly encouraged. Don’t miss your chance to unlock your coffee’s full potential and experience the Link Roaster like never before.

Coffee Prices Remain Under Pressure Amid Brazil’s Advancing Harvest and Global Supply Outlook

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Coffee prices remain under pressure as Brazil’s ongoing harvest and global production forecasts point to abundant supply in the 2025/26 season.

On Thursday, September arabica coffee futures (KCU25) declined by 1.60 cents (-0.55%), while September robusta futures (RMU25) rose by $25 (+0.69%), closing the day mixed. Arabica prices fell to a contract low on Wednesday, and the nearest July futures dropped to their lowest point in 7.5 months. Robusta futures had also hit a 1.25-year low last week.

Brazil’s advancing harvest is a major factor. Cooxupé, the country’s largest coffee cooperative and top exporter, reported that its harvest was 31% complete as of June 27 — down from 42% at the same time last year. Meanwhile, dry weather forecasts in key coffee regions are expected to accelerate harvesting activities.

Safras & Mercado provided a broader view, stating that Brazil’s total 2025/26 harvest was 35% complete by June 11 — nearly aligned with the 5-year average, although slightly behind last year’s 37%. Robusta harvesting was 49% complete, while arabica was at 26%, delayed by heavy rainfall in some regions.

Recent rainfall in Minas Gerais — Brazil’s primary arabica-growing state — further pressured prices. Meteorological agency Somar reported 5 mm of rain during the week ending June 28, which is 714% of the historical average for that period, easing drought concerns and benefiting crop development.

On the global front, forecasts continue to weigh on prices. The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) projects Brazil’s 2025/26 coffee output will rise slightly by 0.5% year-over-year to 65 million bags. Vietnam — the leading robusta producer — is expected to grow its output by 6.9% to a four-year high of 31 million bags.

However, robusta prices have some support. ICE-monitored robusta inventories fell to a six-week low of 5,108 lots last week, before slightly rebounding to 5,153 lots. On the other hand, arabica inventories are trending higher — reaching a 4.75-month high of 892,468 bags in late May and settling at 842,223 bags by last Thursday.

Meanwhile, Brazilian green coffee exports dropped by 36% in May compared to the previous year, totaling 2.8 million bags, according to Cecafé — a bullish sign for prices in the short term.

In Vietnam, the situation is more mixed. The 2023/24 crop dropped by 20% due to drought, down to 1.472 million metric tons — the smallest in four years. Export data also shows contraction: 2024 shipments fell by 17.1% year-over-year, and exports from January to May 2025 were down 1.8% to 813,000 metric tons. The Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association has revised its 2024/25 production forecast down to 26.5 million bags.

Despite regional declines, the USDA’s global report remains bearish. The FAS expects world coffee production in 2025/26 to reach a record 178.68 million bags — a 2.5% increase from the previous year. Arabica output is expected to fall by 1.7% to 97.022 million bags, while robusta is forecasted to grow by 7.9% to 81.658 million bags. Ending stocks are projected to rise by 4.9% to 22.819 million bags.

Volcafe, however, forecasts a global arabica supply deficit of 8.5 million bags for 2025/26 — larger than the 5.5 million bag shortfall projected for 2024/25. If confirmed, it would mark the fifth consecutive annual deficit for arabica coffee, signaling long-term supply strain despite current price softness.

Rebuilding Global Coffee Stocks May Take At Least Two Strong Harvests, Experts Warn

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Replenishing global coffee inventories after years of supply deficits could require at least two consecutive strong harvests, according to industry officials speaking at the Coffee Dinner & Summit held in Brazil.

Despite forecasts of a large coffee crop in Brazil for the upcoming season, experts cautioned that this alone will not be enough to restore stock levels or ease market pressures in the short term. The combination of persistent demand and unstable weather patterns continues to challenge recovery efforts.

“I do not believe we’ll be able to rebuild stocks from this year to next year,” said Luiz Fernando dos Reis, Commercial Superintendent at Cooxupé, Brazil’s largest coffee cooperative. “We would need at least two good harvests.”

Charles Chiapolino, Director of Coffee Research at Louis Dreyfus Company, echoed the sentiment:
“To return to the stock levels we had four years ago, we’ll need at least two years of very good harvests — and that’s if everything goes right.” He added that achieving favorable weather conditions across major producing countries for two consecutive years is “almost impossible.”

German Bahamon, CEO of the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation, emphasized that global demand remains stable or even growing in some markets, making it difficult to accumulate reserves:
“At the moment, no one can build stocks while consumption remains this strong.”

Looking ahead, Reis noted that even if Brazil delivers a strong 2026/27 harvest, the following crop may fall short due to the biennial nature of arabica coffee trees, which typically alternate between high and low-yielding years.

Coffee prices surged earlier this year, driven by tight supplies and consistent global demand. While Brazil, the world’s top producer and exporter, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the market, experts warn that structural challenges — from climate volatility to shifting production cycles — will continue to test the industry’s ability to rebuild inventories in the near future.

 

 

Luckin Coffee’s U.S. Strategy: Less Seating, More Speed, and Inventive Menus

Posted on by Qahwa World

The Chinese chain enters the U.S. market with fruit-forward cold brews and a digital-first café model, offering a bold contrast to Starbucks’ traditional approach.

Chinese coffee giant Luckin Coffee has officially launched in the United States, opening two compact stores in Manhattan this week and signaling a new phase of global ambition. Unlike traditional cafés, Luckin is betting on speed, convenience, and bold flavors to attract American consumers — starting with a blood orange cold brew and jasmine-infused coffee.

Inside the midtown store, customer Sam Liu took a sip of her jasmine cold brew, visibly surprised. “I’ve never tried anything like it,” she said. “I thought I’d order at the counter, but everyone was standing around staring at their phones.” Like all Luckin stores, the new Manhattan locations operate solely through a mobile app, with no in-person ordering at the counter and only minimal seating — just three tables.

Founded in Xiamen, China in 2017, Luckin Coffee now operates over 24,000 outlets across Asia, making it the largest coffee chain in China by store count — with more than double the number of Starbucks locations there. The two New York stores represent Luckin’s first venture beyond Asia, positioning the brand in the world’s most competitive coffee market.

CEO Guo Jinyi called the U.S. “a strategically important market,” stating in a launch announcement: “We are excited to introduce a diverse and unique coffee experience to American consumers.” While the company has not disclosed future expansion plans, its entry into New York suggests broader ambitions.

Luckin’s success in China has been driven by its mobile-only ordering system and a menu packed with innovative drinks, such as coconut cloud lattes, fruit-flavored brews, and even alcohol-infused coffee. This combination of tech-forward service and product innovation has enabled it to scale rapidly, optimize delivery logistics, and personalize customer engagement.

John Zolidis, founder of Quo Vadis Capital and a retail analyst who follows both Starbucks and Luckin, explained: “Luckin has developed an incredible muscle for product innovation. They’re extremely creative with their menu, and that helps them stand out in saturated markets.” He added that the key to Luckin’s success in the U.S. will be whether these non-traditional drinks — like blood orange cold brew and coconut lattes — resonate with American palates.

Despite facing significant challenges in the past, including a high-profile accounting scandal that led to its delisting from Nasdaq in 2020 and a U.S. bankruptcy filing in 2021, Luckin has rebounded impressively. It emerged from bankruptcy in 2022 and reported $4.7 billion in global revenue in 2024, a 38.4% year-over-year increase.

Meanwhile, Starbucks is facing turbulence on both domestic and international fronts. In fiscal year 2024, same-store sales in the U.S. dropped 2%, while sales in China fell 8%. The company reported in April that its quarterly profit had dropped by half compared to the previous year. CEO Laxman Narasimhan admitted in June that the company had “veered away from owning the idea of the ‘third place’” — a term Starbucks has long used to define its in-store café experience as a welcoming space between home and work.

In contrast, Luckin is taking a lean, low-cost approach: small locations, no cashiers, minimal seating, and app-based transactions. In China, this strategy has positioned Luckin as “the everyman’s coffee,” offering affordable prices and fast service, appealing to urban professionals and students alike.

Some American consumers are already embracing the model. Samantha Coy, who previously lived in China, said she traveled from New Jersey to visit the midtown location. “I’m surprised Starbucks hasn’t brought drinks like this to the U.S.,” she said while holding a fruit-flavored latte. “I hope Luckin stays.”

Analyst Zolidis believes the brand has a real shot at carving out space in the American market. “They’ve scaled faster than anyone expected in China and built a strong financial model. They wouldn’t be entering the U.S. unless they believed they could capture a piece of this highly competitive market.”

As Luckin quietly sets up shop in the land of Starbucks, its success will depend on more than novelty drinks. The company is wagering that Americans — especially urban, mobile-first consumers — are ready for a faster, smarter, and more adventurous coffee experience.