Tag: coffee consumption

92% of Germans Drink Coffee — But Habits Are Changing

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Berlin – Qahwa World

Coffee continues to dominate German daily life, making it the country’s favorite beverage. Yet recent surveys reveal that while consumption remains remarkably high, habits are shifting under the influence of age, inflation, and changing social values.

A 2025 survey by Ipsos Observer for Aral found that 92% of Germans drink coffee, with 68% consuming it daily. Despite these impressive figures, the share of daily coffee drinkers has fallen steadily over the past decade — from 76% in 2016 to 72% in 2018, and now 68% in 2025.

The same survey shed light on consumption patterns:

35% drink two cups a day,

27% three cups,

18% four cups,

9% just one cup.

When it comes to preparation, filtered coffee leads with 44%, followed by cappuccino (37.8%), café crema (33.9%), latte (29.7%), latte macchiato (26.4%), and espresso (22.2%). Milk preferences also show diversity: 37.8% prefer whole milk, 26.3% skimmed milk, 15.1% plant-based alternatives, and 13.5% condensed milk, while 25.2% drink it black. A majority — 60.1% — prefer no sugar.

Motivations reflect both necessity and pleasure. About 80% of Germans say caffeine is essential, with 42.2% admitting they find it hard to wake up without coffee, and 24.8% unable to start the morning without it. Yet for many, coffee is also a moment of enjoyment — 54.8% drink it for pleasure, 45.2% for relaxation, and 35.5% to fill breaks or enjoy personal time.

Inflation and shifting attitudes

A separate study by SINUS-Institut and OPINION, conducted in 2022 to mark World Coffee Day, emphasized the role of inflation and broader social changes. It showed that while 92% of Germans consume coffee, 15% reduced their intake due to rising prices. Younger Germans (under 40) and East Germans were particularly likely to cut back.

At the same time, many remain loyal to quality: 37% are still willing to pay more for good coffee, especially those with higher education. Sustainability is also a growing priority — about 30% prefer ethically sourced coffee, with support strongest among the so-called “Post-Materialist” milieu, who see coffee choices as part of their responsibility toward climate and society.

Consumption varies by age: Germans under 30 drink about seven cups a week, while those aged 60–69 drink more than 16 cups. A third of the population is open to trying new coffee types, with the most adventurous group being people in their thirties. About 20% describe coffee as a hobby, and nearly 19% place importance on having a state-of-the-art coffee machine.

In a comparative survey in Austria, drip coffee was far less popular (15%) than in Germany (34%), reflecting Austria’s stronger espresso culture. Inflation also had an impact there, with 18% reducing consumption, slightly more than in Germany.

Together, these studies show how coffee remains Germany’s most beloved drink, consumed by nearly the entire population. Yet economic pressures, generational differences, and evolving values are gradually reshaping how — and why — Germans enjoy their daily coffee.

China Coffee Market Set to Surpass $45 Billion by 2032 as Demand Soars

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Dubai – Qahwa World

China’s coffee market is experiencing a remarkable surge, driven by shifting consumer habits and rapid retail expansion. The market was valued at USD 20.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to more than double to USD 45.5 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.19% between 2025 and 2032. This growth marks a profound transformation in a country long dominated by tea culture, positioning coffee as a rising force in the beverage sector.

Coffee production in China is concentrated in Yunnan, which accounts for over 60% of national output, followed by Hainan and smaller contributions from Fujian. Despite these efforts, the domestic supply remains insufficient to meet demand, leaving the country heavily reliant on imports. This has prompted both government agencies and private companies to invest in research and development aimed at boosting productivity and improving quality. Instant coffee continues to hold the largest market share due to its convenience, while ground coffee and whole beans are expanding as consumer tastes diversify.

Retail competition is intense, with international and domestic chains reshaping the landscape. Starbucks now operates more than 3,300 stores across China, while Luckin Coffee is racing ahead with plans to open 10,000 outlets, supported by a digital-first model tied to WeChat. This strategy not only simplifies ordering but also enables data-driven insights into consumer behavior. Meanwhile, Manner Coffee has captured younger professionals by pricing its drinks up to 40% lower than Western rivals and offering eco-conscious incentives such as discounts for reusable cups. Costa Coffee, on the other hand, leans on product localization, tailoring flavors to match regional preferences, with noticeable differences between its Beijing and Shanghai menus.

E-commerce has emerged as a critical growth driver, with Alibaba’s Tmall commanding a 56.6% share of online coffee sales, followed by JD.com at 24.7%. This dominance highlights the growing importance of digital platforms as consumers increasingly purchase both imported and domestic coffee products online.

The competitive landscape is anchored by major global and local players including Nestlé, Starbucks, Luckin Coffee, Gloria Jean’s, Kraft Heinz, Coca-Cola, JAB Holding, and Luigi Lavazza, alongside domestic firms such as Hainan LISUN and Dehong Hogood Coffee. Each is striving to consolidate its position through geographic expansion, product innovation, and stronger consumer engagement strategies.

Looking ahead, analysts predict that growth will not only be quantitative but also qualitative, as trends in sustainability, functional beverages like protein coffee, and digital integration reshape the industry. With a projected CAGR of 10.19% and consumer demand accelerating at unprecedented speed, China is on track to establish itself as a global powerhouse in the coffee industry, blending its growing domestic production with a robust import market to satisfy a rapidly evolving consumer base.

Specialty Coffee Consumption in the United States Reaches Record High

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weather shocks

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

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

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

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

Trade tariffs

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

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

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

Low inventories

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

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

Prices and consumption

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

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

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

Short-term and long-term outlook

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

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

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

What it means for the future

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

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

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

India Cuts GST on Coffee to 5% in Landmark Tax Overhaul

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New Delhi, September 4, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Indian government has announced a sweeping reform of its Goods and Services Tax (GST), slashing rates on coffee and other food products from 12%–18% down to just 5%. The decision, taken during the 56th GST Council meeting chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marks one of the most significant tax changes since the GST system was introduced in 2017.

The reform simplifies India’s indirect tax structure into two main slabs—5% for essential and merit goods, and 18% as the standard rate—alongside a new 40% rate for de-merit goods such as tobacco and luxury items. The reduced rates, including the cut on coffee, will take effect from September 22, 2025, coinciding with the Navratri festival.

Coffee Industry Among Key Beneficiaries

Coffee has been placed in the merit category, meaning products that previously attracted 12% or 18% GST—such as roasted beans, instant coffee, and other processed coffee items—will now be taxed at only 5%.

Industry experts expect this move to have a ripple effect across the entire coffee value chain:

  • Growers and processors are likely to benefit from stronger domestic demand, as lower retail prices could encourage greater consumption.

  • Retailers and cafés may see a boost in sales volumes, with increased affordability improving consumer access to both mainstream and specialty coffee.

  • Consumers will directly benefit from reduced prices, especially as food and beverage costs have risen sharply in recent years.

A Broader Economic Push

The decision is part of a wider strategy aimed at easing the cost of living, stimulating consumption, and simplifying India’s tax regime. Alongside coffee, the rate cut covers other everyday items including chocolates, butter, ghee, sauces, noodles, and packaged snacks.

“This rationalisation is designed to make GST simpler, more transparent, and more consumer-friendly,” Finance Minister Sitharaman said after the council meeting, stressing that the two-slab system will also reduce compliance burdens for businesses.

Looking Ahead

India—already one of the world’s largest producers of Arabica and Robusta—is expected to see a surge in domestic coffee consumption following the tax cut. Analysts suggest the move could help narrow the cultural gap between tea and coffee, while further boosting India’s vibrant café culture and specialty coffee sector.

The GST overhaul signals a structural shift in India’s economic policy, and for coffee, it may represent the beginning of a new chapter where affordability fuels greater appreciation of the drink across the country.

3 to 5 Cups of Coffee Daily Extend Life and Reduce Disease Risk

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Dubai, 27 August 2025 (Qahwa World) – For centuries, coffee has been more than a drink. It has been a ritual, a social bond, a fuel for intellectual debate, and a daily companion for billions. Now, science is reaffirming that this centuries-old beverage is not only cultural but also profoundly tied to human health. A comprehensive review published this month in Nutrients concludes that moderate coffee consumption, typically three to five cups a day, is consistently linked to longer life and a reduced risk of many of the world’s leading causes of death.

The study, authored by Ryan Emadi and Dr. Farin Kamangar, examined decades of large-scale cohort research involving millions of participants across the United States, Europe, and Asia. Their findings show that people who regularly drink coffee enjoy between 10% and 15% lower overall mortality than non-drinkers. Importantly, both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee were associated with these benefits, suggesting that the protective effects come not only from caffeine but also from the dozens of bioactive compounds present in coffee.

Evidence is particularly strong when it comes to major chronic diseases. For cardiovascular health, those who consumed three to five cups daily experienced about a 15% reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. Type 2 diabetes, a condition that affects hundreds of millions worldwide, also appears to be strongly influenced by coffee habits. A meta-analysis of more than one million participants found that coffee drinkers had nearly a 30% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and this protection extended to both decaf and regular coffee. Among people already living with diabetes, coffee consumption was linked to fewer cardiovascular events and lower mortality rates.

The benefits extend to neurological health as well. Drinking coffee was associated with up to a 25% lower risk of cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The protective effect also applied to Parkinson’s disease, where coffee and caffeine intake not only lowered the risk of developing the disease but also slowed its progression among those already diagnosed. Respiratory diseases, another major global killer, also showed an inverse relationship with coffee consumption, while studies reported reduced risks of liver fibrosis, chronic kidney disease, and acute kidney injury among habitual drinkers.

Cancer, once the focus of skepticism about coffee, has now largely been cleared from suspicion. Earlier fears that coffee might contribute to cancer risk have been replaced by evidence suggesting the opposite. Coffee is now associated with reduced risk of several cancers, particularly of the liver, uterus, and endometrium. A pooled analysis of nineteen studies found that women who drank coffee had a 13% lower risk of endometrial cancer, and the relationship was dose-dependent—the more coffee, the lower the risk.

Beyond chronic disease, coffee also appears to play a role in everyday well-being and safety. Studies cited in the review showed that drivers consuming caffeinated coffee were significantly less likely to crash, and older adults had a reduced risk of falls. Researchers attribute this to coffee’s ability to improve alertness, attention, and mobility.

The mechanisms behind these benefits are diverse and interconnected. Coffee has been shown to improve glucose tolerance, enhance daily physical activity, increase fat oxidation during exercise, boost lung function, and reduce inflammation. One trial found that people who drank caffeinated coffee walked an average of 1,000 more steps per day than on days they abstained. Other studies demonstrated that coffee drinkers had lower levels of inflammatory markers, suggesting that coffee helps the body manage the underlying inflammation that fuels many chronic diseases.

Yet not all coffee is created equal. The review stressed that black coffee offers the strongest protection. Adding sugar, in particular, can cancel out or diminish benefits. Some studies have linked sugar-sweetened coffee to higher risks of depression and weight gain, while unsweetened coffee showed the opposite effect. Cream and milk appear less harmful, but excessive amounts of sugar and high-fat additives weaken coffee’s health profile.

There are also caveats. Pregnant women are advised to limit caffeine to below 200 milligrams per day, as higher intake may pose risks. Coffee can interfere with sleep if consumed too late in the day, cutting total sleep time by around 30 to 45 minutes. Excessive consumption may trigger anxiety, palpitations, or panic attacks in sensitive individuals. Despite these concerns, the authors emphasized that for the vast majority of adults, moderate consumption is not only safe but beneficial.

Dr. Farin Kamangar summarized the findings: “The results of several decades of high-quality research on millions of people show that coffee is overall beneficial to health. Moderate coffee consumption, typically three to five cups a day, is linked to increased longevity and reduced risks of many major diseases, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and cognitive decline.”

This new consensus has already begun to reshape official guidelines. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently ruled that plain coffee with fewer than five calories per serving can be labeled as “healthy,” reflecting its favorable profile across multiple health outcomes.

In the end, coffee is not a cure-all, but the evidence is clear: consumed in moderation, it is far more friend than foe. For billions who reach for a cup each morning, the comfort of coffee now comes with scientific reassurance that it may also be extending their lives.

Coffee Boom: Saudis Consume 36 Million Cups Daily

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Dubai, August 21, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Saudi Arabia’s coffee market is witnessing unprecedented growth, positioning the Kingdom among the world’s top consumers of caffeine. According to the Saudi Restaurants and Cafés Association, Saudis consume around 36 million cups of coffee every day, roughly equivalent to one cup per person. The local market is valued at between $1.3 and $1.9 billion annually, reflecting strong demand and a broad consumer base. Projections also suggest that the coffee market across the Middle East and North Africa could reach $11.7 billion by 2027, with Saudi Arabia making a major contribution thanks to the rising popularity of specialty coffee.

The Ministry of Commerce has issued more than 61,000 café licenses across the country, including 27,000 licenses for traditional neighborhood cafés that serve Arabic coffee and heritage products. This surge underscores how cafés have evolved into vibrant social and economic hubs that now compete with restaurants in both customer traffic and revenue. International chains such as Starbucks and Tim Hortons sit alongside fast-rising Saudi brands like Eksiir Al Bun (Elixir Bunn), Khutwat Jaml (Camel Step), and Barn’s, offering innovative experiences inspired by local culture. Technology has also played a vital role in transforming the café landscape, with online ordering apps, digital payment systems, and even the use of robot baristas in advanced outlets.

According to Ahmed Al-Qashqari, CEO of the Saudi Restaurants and Cafés Association, cafés now account for 16% of the Kingdom’s food service sector, compared to a time when restaurants dominated. He noted that the sector is expanding at an annual growth rate of more than 5%, driving job creation and diversifying income streams in line with Vision 2030, which seeks to establish a sustainable, diversified economy. Beyond their economic role, cafés have also become important community spaces, providing ideal environments for networking, creativity, and entrepreneurship, particularly among young Saudis who make up the majority of the population and lead many successful ventures in this sector.

Saudi Arabia has also invested around $320 million to boost domestic coffee cultivation, particularly in the regions of Jazan, Al-Baha, and Asir, which produce the premium Khoulani Arabica beans renowned for their global quality. This investment is designed to significantly increase production and transform Saudi coffee from a cultural tradition into a competitive economic product with strong export potential. The initiative also strengthens the Kingdom’s standing in the global coffee industry. Meanwhile, events such as the Saudi Coffee Festival continue to promote local products and enhance cultural tourism, further solidifying coffee’s strategic role in the national economy.

Despite this remarkable growth, the sector faces challenges, including high operating costs, fierce competition among brands, and the need to continuously train baristas and staff to ensure a world-class experience. Reliance on imports for certain coffee varieties also remains an obstacle to full self-sufficiency. Nevertheless, ongoing investments in local production, combined with technological innovation and consumer-focused strategies, point toward a bright future for Saudi Arabia’s coffee industry, which is fast becoming one of the most dynamic economic and cultural drivers in the region.