Tag: Coffee Auction

Cup of Excellence Auction Changes Coffee Farmer’s Life

Posted on by Qahwa World
Author: Qahwa World
Source: Cup of Excellence
Date: May 26, 2026

Cup of Excellence Auction Changes Coffee Farmer’s Life

Executive Summary:

  • Ramón Jarquín, a coffee producer from El Porvenir, Nicaragua, sold his coffee for only $1.50 per pound through intermediaries for years.
  • He carried his coffee 2 kilometers on his back to sell it, showing immense dedication.
  • Encouraged to join Cup of Excellence 2025, his coffee won second place and sold for $15 per pound.
  • The proceeds helped pay for life saving medical treatment for his young daughter.
  • His daughter, who had to pause school due to illness, is now healthy and back to her childhood routines.
  • The Nicaragua Cup of Excellence auction will take place on June 25, 2026.

Behind every coffee lot is something much bigger: a family, a dream, and sometimes even a second chance at life. Ramón Jarquín, a coffee producer from El Porvenir, Nicaragua, spent years selling his coffee through intermediaries for only $1.50 per pound.

He never imagined how much it was truly worth. He even carried his coffee two kilometers on his back while walking, showing the determination and hard work behind every harvest.

Encouraged to participate in Cup of Excellence 2025, Ramón entered with little expectation. Then everything changed. His coffee earned second place and sold for $15 per pound at auction, ten times his usual price.

A Life Changed Beyond the Auction

The greatest impact happened at home. The proceeds helped Ramón afford life saving treatment for his young daughter. The little girl had been struggling with health issues that deeply affected the entire family. Before receiving treatment, she was unable to enjoy the simple routines of childhood and had to put school on hold.

Thanks to this opportunity, she was able to get the care she needed. She returned to school, spent time with friends, and simply became a child again. Stories like Ramón’s remind us why this work matters. Cup of Excellence is not only about extraordinary coffee. It is about creating opportunities and changing lives.

How to Participate

You can be part of that impact at the Nicaragua Cup of Excellence Auction on June 25, 2026. Sample sets are available for purchase. Orders close soon. Secure your sample sets before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is Ramón Jarquín?

Ramón Jarquín is a coffee producer from El Porvenir, Nicaragua, who participated in Cup of Excellence 2025 and won second place.

2. How much did Ramón used to sell his coffee for?

He sold his coffee for only $1.50 per pound through intermediaries before the auction.

3. What price did his coffee achieve at the Cup of Excellence auction?

His coffee sold for $15 per pound, ten times his usual price.

4. How did the auction winnings change his family’s life?

The proceeds helped pay for life saving medical treatment for his young daughter, who was seriously ill.

5. When is the Nicaragua Cup of Excellence auction?

The auction will take place on June 25, 2026.

6. How can buyers participate?

Buyers can secure sample sets before orders close. Contact Cup of Excellence for more information.

Qahwa World – Based on Cup of Excellence story.
Published: May 26, 2026

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 Concludes with Record Engagement

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

The fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concluded today at the Dubai World Trade Centre, closing a dynamic three-day programme focused on trade, professional learning, and origin engagement. Organised by DXB LIVE in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the event reinforced its role as a global hub for the specialty coffee industry.

Following a record-breaking opening day, Day Two sustained high engagement across Za’abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, and 6. Producers, roasters, buyers, and suppliers participated in business meetings, live cuppings, technical demonstrations, and networking sessions throughout the exhibition floor.

A key highlight was the World Class Auction, part of the Dubai Coffee Auction programme curated with M-Cultivo. Buyers sampled and bid on high-quality, traceable coffees in real-time, with the top lot—a Natural Geisha—selling for $3,075 per kilogram, reflecting the premium placed on exceptional origin coffees.

The Producer Panel showcased dialogues between origin representatives and industry stakeholders, exploring market access, value creation, and evolving producer–buyer relationships. Discussions emphasized sustainability, transparency, and long-term partnerships as central to the specialty coffee value chain.

Competitive programmes also drew attention. The Roasting Championship advanced into its technical evaluation phase, while the Cezve/Ibrik Championships 2026 celebrated traditional brewing methods through a modern specialty coffee lens.

Exhibitors praised the commercial impact of the event. Sanjeev Dinesh Fernando from Alpro said participation generated strong business leads, while Mohamed Alhammadi, Co-Owner of Tajer Coffee, described their first-time presence and sponsorship as exceeding expectations.

Reflecting on the event, Shouq Bin Redha, Exhibition Manager of World of Coffee Dubai, said:
“World of Coffee Dubai functions as a working marketplace for the specialty coffee sector. From live auctions and producer dialogues to championship progression and educational sessions, the programme delivers practical exchange and quality-driven trade outcomes.”

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concluded with the final Exhibitors’ Coffee Auction, championship awards, and ongoing educational sessions, leaving participants inspired and connected as the region’s premier specialty coffee event.

For more information, registration, and the full programme, visit: www.worldofcoffeedubai.com.

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 to Host Over 2,100 Exhibitors from 78 Countries

Posted on by Qahwa World

Countdown Begins for the Region’s Largest Coffee Industry Event

Dubai – Qahwa World

World of Coffee Dubai 2026, the Middle East’s premier specialty coffee trade event, is set to take place from 18 to 20 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Now in its fifth edition, the event will bring together more than 2,100 exhibiting companies and brands from 78 countries, representing the full spectrum of the global coffee industry—from producers and roasters to equipment manufacturers, café operators, traders, and hospitality leaders.

Organized by DXB LIVE in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the event spans 20,000 square metres and offers a dynamic platform for trade, innovation, professional development, and cultural exchange within the specialty coffee sector. Dubai’s strategic location underscores its role as a global hub connecting coffee-producing origins with high-growth consumer markets and international trade centres.

  • A Fully Integrated Experience

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 features immersive experiences across key zones including Roasters Village, Producers’ Village, Cupping Rooms, and the Brew & Espresso Bar. Visitors can engage directly with leading global brands, sample specialty coffees, and participate in hands-on sessions. Dedicated technology zones will highlight innovations in roasting and brewing systems, automation, and sustainability, reflecting the future direction of the specialty coffee industry.

  • Championships Celebrating Expertise and Heritage

The event will host the UAE National Championships, the Roasting Championship, and the Cezve/Ibrik World Championship, showcasing barista artistry, technical precision, and heritage coffee preparation techniques. These competitions spotlight skill, craftsmanship, and the evolving standards of specialty coffee worldwide.

  • Three Live Auctions Over Three Days

The Dubai Coffee Auction programme runs throughout the event, including the Coffee Equipment Auction (18 January), the Microlot Auction (19 January), and the Exhibitors’ Coffee Auction (20 January). These auctions provide transparent platforms for price discovery, connecting international buyers with producers and brands.

  • A Platform for the Global Coffee Economy

“World of Coffee Dubai has evolved into a central platform supporting the global coffee economy,” said Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE. “The 2026 edition highlights the scale and impact of our championship and auction programmes, creating tangible commercial and cultural value for the global coffee community.”

Shouq Bin Redha, Exhibition Director, added: “By bringing together global standards, trade, and education, World of Coffee Dubai strengthens the UAE’s position within the international specialty coffee sector and supports professional growth across the region.”

Shouq Bin Redha, Exhibition Director

Event Details

  • Dates: 18–20 January 2026

  • Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre, Za’abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, and 6

  • Time: 10:00am – 6:00pm daily

  • Registration and Media Accreditation: www.worldofcoffeedubai.com

About World of Coffee Dubai
World of Coffee Dubai is the region’s leading coffee trade exhibition, connecting local, regional, and international professionals. The event features specialty zones, professional competitions, educational sessions, and opportunities for business networking, showcasing the best of coffee innovation and culture.

About SCA
The Specialty Coffee Association is the world’s largest nonprofit membership organization for coffee professionals. It promotes inclusivity, education, and shared knowledge to advance the specialty coffee industry globally.

About DXB LIVE
DXB LIVE, the event management arm of Dubai World Trade Centre, delivers world-class exhibitions, conferences, festivals, and private events. With expertise spanning creative, technical, and operational services, DXB LIVE organizes over 100 major events annually and designs more than 500,000 square feet of exhibition space.

Ethiopia launches Specialty Coffee Association (SCAE) to elevate global profile

Posted on by Qahwa World

Addis Ababa – Qahwa World×Buna Kurs Media

Ethiopia has officially inaugurated the Specialty Coffee Association of Ethiopia (SCAE), a national platform aimed at strengthening the global presence and competitiveness of its specialty coffee sector. The launch took place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, attended by prominent coffee industry stakeholders, including H.E. Dr. Efa Muleta, State Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture, H.E. Dr. Adugna Debela, Director of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority, and leading specialty coffee exporters.

Leadership and Mission

SCAE is led by President Ashenafi Argaw and a board of industry experts. The association’s mission is to promote Ethiopian specialty coffee internationally, uphold high quality standards, support sustainability, and create opportunities for producers, exporters, and cooperatives. The launch event also recognized the legends who have shaped Ethiopia’s specialty coffee journey and highlighted the strategic pillars that will guide the sector’s future.

Key Initiatives

A central program under SCAE is the “Best of Ethiopia” national specialty coffee auction, designed to showcase the country’s top coffees to international buyers. Inspired by successful auctions in Panama and Colombia, this initiative aims to strengthen Ethiopia’s visibility in the premium coffee segment while ensuring quality, traceability, and direct market access for producers.

SCAE will also serve as a hub for training, research, professional development, and market expansion, offering resources to strengthen Ethiopia’s coffee sector while protecting its unique varietals and biodiversity.

Global Significance

Specialty coffee associations worldwide play a vital role in connecting producers to high-value markets, professionalizing the sector, and sharing knowledge. With SCAE, Ethiopia now has a dedicated platform to ensure its story of origin, quality, and sustainability reaches the international specialty coffee community.

 

 

Yemeni Coffee Achieves Record Heights at the Best of Yemen 2025 Auction

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – September 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Best of Yemen 2025 auction, organized by Qahwa Al Qimma (Qima Coffee), has come to a historic close after two days of global bidding that stretched across 12 intense hours. The event not only broke price records but also highlighted the resilience of Yemeni farmers and the global demand for their unique coffees.

The auction witnessed unprecedented participation, with servers overwhelmed after 11 hours of bidding and forced into a temporary pause. When resumed the following day, just one more hour of spirited competition was enough to crown this year’s winners.

The Top Lots

1st Place: Yahya Al Faqeeh, offering the rare Yemenia variety processed naturally, achieved the highest price of the auction at $851.50 per pound for 37 lbs. The winning buyer was Black Sip Coffee Roasters, securing one of the most expensive Yemeni coffees in history.

2nd Place: Maghrib Ans XV (Kent, Alchemy process), 110 lbs, sold for $320.50/lb to Sulalat.

3rd Place: Hejrat Al Ain Women Farmers XV (Yemenia, Alchemy process), 88 lbs, reached $327.50/lb, purchased by Albhaa Roastery and Out of Line.

4th Place: Bait Yaseen XI (Yemenia, Alchemy process), 110 lbs, sold for $196.50/lb to Entro Coffee Egypt and ESS’s Roasters Saudi Arabia.

Women Farmers in the Spotlight

Women-led lots stole the spotlight this year. Coffees from Hejrat Al Ain, Hayma Dakhiliya, Bait Al Yaziji, and Al Mezab all ranked among the top positions, underscoring the growing role of Yemeni women in shaping the country’s specialty coffee renaissance.

Global Buyers

Bidders came from across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and North America. Notable names included George Howell Coffee Company (USA), Slope Roastery (Saudi Arabia), Andes Coffee Roaster (Latin America), and several specialty roasters from China and Europe. The diversity of buyers confirmed Yemen’s status as a global benchmark for rare and exclusive coffees.

Auction Figures

Total lots: 33

Total weight: 2,857 lbs

Total value: $391,632

Average price (weighted): $137.08/lb

Median price: $109/lb

Highest price: $851.50/lb

Lowest price: $50.50/lb

Lots over $100/lb: 21

In its closing statement, the organizer said: “This milestone is not only about record prices—it is about the resilience of Yemeni coffee and the farming communities behind it. The unwavering commitment of our buyers and partners makes these moments possible year after year.”

The Best of Yemen 2025 auction was more than a commercial success; it was a cultural milestone. It brought together farmers cultivating coffee in the mountains of Yemen with roasters across the globe, uniting two ends of a shared story: those who grow coffee at its birthplace and those who bring it to the world’s cups.

Ethiopian Coffee Sets New World Record at Echoes of the Peak Auction

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai, 17 September 2025 (Qahwa World) – Ethiopia has once again confirmed its position at the top of the specialty coffee world. At the Echoes of the Peak auction hosted by M-Cultivo, Alo Coffee achieved an extraordinary result, with its Cloud Harvest Lot NW2 reaching US $1,739 per kilogram, the highest price ever paid for an Ethiopian coffee.

The lot, weighing five kilograms and processed using the Nocturnal Washed method, was sold for US $8,695 to Coffee Camps Limited. This record surpasses the previous benchmark of US $1,604/kg set earlier this year at the Faysel Abdosh Inaugural Auction, cementing Alo Coffee’s place among the country’s most celebrated producers.

“This is a historic moment for Ethiopian coffee. Achieving $1,739 per kilo not only breaks records but also shows the world the true value and potential of our producers’ hard work,” said Tamiru Tadessa Tesema, founder of Alo Coffee. “We are proud to share this milestone with the global coffee community and even more motivated to keep pushing quality limits. The result highlights Ethiopia’s position as the birthplace of coffee and a leader in quality innovation.”

Ethiopia’s coffee sector continues to play a vital role in the national economy, earning US $2.7 billion in foreign currency each year and supporting the livelihoods of over 20 million farmers. This latest achievement goes beyond numbers, standing as a bold statement of Ethiopia’s global coffee excellence and the unmatched value of its terroirs.

The 2025 auction season has already seen remarkable milestones worldwide, with prices reflecting the rise of a luxury coffee segment shaped both by multi-generational estates and ambitious, emerging businesses. With this record, Alo Coffee’s first private auction has not only captured international attention but also reinforced Ethiopia’s enduring prestige in the global coffee market.

Living Legacy: Yemen’s Coffee Farmers Shine in Best of Yemen 2025

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai / Sana’a – August 2025 (Qahwa World) – The mountains of Yemen have spoken once again. The Best of Yemen 2025 auction has revealed its winners: 33 rare coffees, each carrying the taste of history and the strength of survival. This year’s theme, Living Legacy, honors the people, practices, and places that have kept Yemeni coffee alive for more than five centuries.

At the summit stands Yahya Al Faqeeh, a farmer from Al Jidan in Hayma Kharijiya. His Yemenia natural, just 37 pounds in total, scored 90.45 points—the highest of the competition. In his cup: jasmine, yellow lily, peach, macerated strawberry, blueberry gummies, and green apple. Behind it is a family tradition stretching back three centuries, with women at the heart of harvest and terraces carved into stone that have endured drought, pests, and time itself.

He is joined by other remarkable producers: Maghrib Ans XV (90.29), a Kent variety shaped through Qima’s Alchemy fermentation; Hejrat Al Ain Women Farmers XV (90.16), a women-led lot grown at 2,300m; and Bait Yaseen XI (90.16), a community coffee that blends history with floral vibrancy.

This year, women played a defining role. Fourteen of the winning lots—42 percent—came from women farmers, either through individual entries or collective groups. From Hejrat Al Ain to Al Mezab, their stories echo sacrifice and determination: planting seedlings instead of qat, selling gold to buy new trees, and working from dawn to dusk so their children inherit both terraces and tradition.

The auction also highlighted Yemen’s unique balance of tradition and innovation. Natural processes preserved terroir at its purest, Alchemy lots introduced layers of clarity and sweetness, and Carbonic Honey, represented by Bani Zaidan, added rare vibrancy while conserving water.

From 12 highland villages, perched between 1,800 and 2,300 metres, these coffees are more than agricultural products—they are monuments of endurance. Each terrace tells a story of families who, against scarcity and isolation, continue to farm the world’s most legendary coffee.

On 18 September 2025, buyers worldwide will compete for these treasures at the seventh edition of the Best of Yemen auction, held in collaboration with the Alliance for Coffee Excellence. For them, it will be a chance to secure rare coffees of unmatched flavour. For Yemen, it is another chapter in a legacy written across mountains, families, and centuries.

Because Yemeni coffee is not just grown. It is lived.