European Parliament Delays EUDR Implementation for Second Time

BRUSSELS Qahwa World

The European Union voted on November 26, 2025, to approve a new and unprecedented delay to the implementation of the “European Union Deforestation Regulation” (EUDR), a move that reflects the scale of the logistical and political challenges facing the continent’s most prominent environmental legislation. The delay decision secured the approval of a majority of 402 votes to 250, granting trade sectors an additional year to prepare.

The Deforestation Regulation mandates that companies importing seven key commodities, including coffee, cocoa, palm oil, and rubber, must prove they are free from any link to deforestation that occurred after the end of 2020. This requires “Due Diligence” systems based on precise geographical location data.

The delay came in response to concerns raised by Member States and the trade community, particularly regarding the readiness of the EU’s central IT system (TRACES) and the burden the law imposes on smallholder farmers and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

The new decision established the official compliance deadlines as follows:

  • Large and Medium Operators: The deadline is December 30, 2026.
  • Micro and Small Enterprises: The deadline is June 30, 2027.

The Parliament also approved crucial “simplification” measures, most notably reducing the due diligence requirements for small companies, and including a clause mandating the European Commission to conduct a comprehensive review of the regulation by April 2026 to assess the administrative burdens. Another notable amendment was the exclusion of printed materials such as books and newspapers from the regulation’s scope.

This postponement has sparked mixed reactions, revealing deep polarization in the market. While small producers and farmers welcomed the extra time to invest in traceability systems, multinational companies that initiated compliance earlyincluding major coffee firmsexpressed their disappointment.

These companies warned that repeated delays “increase legal uncertainty in the market and harm pioneer companies” that committed to the requirements early. Conversely, environmental organizations voiced concern that the delay represents a green light for more deforestation-linked commodities to enter the European market for an additional year.

Next Steps

The November 26th vote is a key legislative step, but the decision is not yet final. The amended text must now enter into “Trilogue” negotiations between the Parliament, the Council, and the Commission to reach a final consensus formula before it can be ratified and published in the Official Journal to become law with the new dates.

A Circular Vision for Coffee Is an Opportunity for the Global South

By: Antonella Ilaria Totaro

Across major coffee-producing regions such as Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and India, millions of small growers continue to sustain a global industry that serves billions of cups each day. With more than 12 million farms cultivating coffee over more than 10 million hectares, the sector remains deeply tied to the economies of the Global South.

Yet many producing countries face similar challenges. Research from the Center for Circular Economy in Coffee (C4CEC) highlights declining yields, rising production costs, soil degradation, and limited profitability—factors that place pressure on small farmers and discourage new generations from entering the field. At the same time, opportunities exist in agroforestry, climate-resilient farming, and product diversification.

The sector generates an enormous amount of waste—estimated at around 40 million tonnes each year. Only a tiny fraction of the coffee cherry is used in the beverage we consume, while the vast majority, including pulp, skin, parchment, and spent grounds, is often discarded. These by-products hold significant potential for new uses in food production, cosmetics, renewable energy, and biochar. African producers, who generate most of this waste, stand to benefit greatly from initiatives that give it new value.

Industry leaders emphasize the need to reimagine how value is created. The International Coffee Organisation notes that turning by-products into marketable goods can support income generation, reduce environmental impact, and create local employment. A recent report developed by several global institutions outlines case studies and strategies for embedding circular-economy principles into coffee production, including regenerative farming and improved waste utilization.

C4CEC has been gathering best practices from experts, researchers, and private-sector partners, forming a knowledge platform aimed at helping coffee growers, cooperatives, roasters, and organizations implement sustainable solutions. The center promotes collaborations that can transform waste into new resources, improve producer income, and reduce the sector’s environmental footprint.

In Kenya, research aligned with the national Coffee Development and Marketing Strategy is exploring ways to turn coffee by-products into food ingredients, biofuels, fertilizers, and materials. Cascara is being tested for use in flour, tea, syrups, and beverages. Coffee waste is also being used for mushroom cultivation and for developing construction and packaging materials.

New businesses are emerging as well. Startups in Egypt and Colombia are experimenting with using coffee waste to grow fungi and support eco-friendly farming. Kenya already uses a large share of its coffee skins for fuel briquettes, while other projects are transforming waste into biochar or creating absorbent materials for treating wastewater.

Building a market for these by-products is essential. Experts from the International Trade Centre highlight the importance of connecting farmers with new industries—such as cosmetics—and creating financial incentives that encourage producers to reuse waste. Strong partnerships at local, regional, and international levels are seen as key to scaling these solutions.

For the Global South, adopting a circular model in the coffee sector represents not only a path toward environmental resilience but also an opportunity to diversify income and support more sustainable livelihoods for farming communities.

Sucafina Releases Key Update on Vietnam’s 2025/26 Coffee Harvest

Vietnam Harvest Update 2025/26: Delayed Start, Strong Outlook

Dubai – Qahwa World

With global markets closely monitoring Vietnam, recent heavy rains from Storm 15 have attracted significant attention among those keen to understand the weather’s impact on supply. We caught up with Khoi Nguyen, Trading Manager at Sucafina Vietnam, for an update. Khoi tells us that despite rain-driven delays and labor tightness, the outlook remains positive, with production increases expected and quality indicators trending upward.

  • Production on the rise: Vietnam’s combined Robusta & Arabica 2025/26 Coffee crop is forecast at 31.2 million bags, up 12% year on year.
  • Heavy rains delaying progress: Excessive rainfall has slowed harvesting (14% of Robusta completed vs. ~25% historical average), compounded by labor shortages.
  • Strong quality prospects: Favorable cherry development and solid farm investment support expectations for improved overall quality.

Harvest Status: Delayed but Resilient

Despite the weather challenges making headlines, Vietnam’s coffee harvest is showing remarkable resilience. Khoi and the team project a total production of 31.2 million bags a 12% increase over last year. This includes 29.9 million bags of Robusta (up 11.5%) and 1.3 million bags of Arabica (up 19%). These numbers exceed our earlier forecasts (+6%) and sit well above the five-year average. Early-season agronomic conditions were favorable, and ongoing investment in farming helped set a strong foundation.

Recent weeks of intense rainfall have slowed harvesting across key Robusta regions. As of 25 November, only 14% of the crop had been harvested, compared with 17% at the same time last season. Labor availability is also lower this year, adding pressure to farm operations. However, sustained high coffee prices over two consecutive years provide farmers resources and incentives to manage these difficulties. If weather stabilizes, quality is expected to improve over last year.

2025/26 Harvest Timing

Robusta harvest is expected to peak in mid-December, with farmers busy harvesting, drying, and husking across Vietnam’s major producing areas.

Arabica harvest has reached its peak in the North (accounting for around 70% of the total Arabica crop). Central Arabica regions will peak early-December.

Both Robusta and Arabica harvests should be expected to complete in late January.

Regulatory & Supplier Landscape

Two key regulatory themes affect the supply chain: a 5% VAT on green coffee was introduced in July 2025, and the evolving European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Neither has an immediate impact at the farm level.

A 5% VAT on green coffee trading has been in place since July 2025 (previously only applied to roasted). The VAT has no impact on farmers’ harvesting behavior, but it may influence how exporters manage their supplier base. While it will not impact overall pricing (as VAT is refunded at export), it adds complexity to reporting administration and reduces cash flow somewhat.

Though EUDR details and enforcement timelines remain unclear, Vietnam’s supply chain is proactive. Supplier collaboration on geodata analysis and completion of macro risk assessment data collection position shipments well for 2025 due-diligence requirements.

IMPACT Supply Chains & Sustainability

Our IMPACT verified supply chains in Gia Lai and Lâm Đng are each progressing through audit cycles. IMPACT-verified coffees will be available starting December 2025.

In Arabica regions, we have successfully registered and audited over 1,500 new farmers in Son La and Lâm Đng for Rainforest Alliance (RA), 4C, and C.A.F.E. Practices certifications. These farmers have also completed training on RA and other agricultural standards. Other sustainability initiatives, including composting, tree planting, GAP training, and soil sampling, continue per earlier updates.

Outlook

While heavy rains understandably raise concerns, the broader view is optimistic. Vietnam is positioned to deliver a larger coffee crop with strong quality potential, grounded in sustained farmer investment and solid production forecasts. Weather stability in December and January remains critical. If conditions normalize, the 2025/26 season could mark one of Vietnam’s strongest performances in recent years.

Farmers’ gains from two years of high prices bolster reinvestment but also elevate their pricing expectations. For roasters and traders, this underscores the importance of early engagement on volumes and quality to secure desired lots.

Despite the media spotlight on weather-related challenges, the reality is nuanced: delays and risks require careful monitoring, but strong production volumes, sound quality fundamentals, and a mature, sustainability-focused supply chain provide confidence. If you are interested in learning more about our Vietnam supply chain or booking coffee from Vietnam, reach out to your trader!

Swedes’ Passion for Coffee Tops the List of Amazon Deforestation Drivers

Dubai – Qahwa World

A new study shows that everyday purchasing habits in Europe directly influence the state of Brazil’s tropical forests, and in Sweden, coffee stands out as the main contributor. The country’s strong appetite for coffee has a larger impact on Amazon deforestation than its consumption of beef or soy.

Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology, the Stockholm Environment Institute and WWF produced an extensive analysis combining satellite imagery, agricultural output data and global consumption models. Their assessment provides one of the most detailed views to date of how consumer choices affect forest loss in the Amazon.

On the global level, cattle farming remains the primary force driving the destruction of Amazon forests, with pastures still expanding by around 1.4 million hectares every year. Degraded pastures are often converted into cropland instead of being restored. Soy production follows as another major cause, with 8.6 million hectares of forest lost between 2018 and 2022 due to beef and soy cultivation. Other crops competing for tropical forest land include rice, sorghum, palm oil, cocoa and coffee.

When researchers examined Sweden specifically, they found that coffee consumption had a greater impact on Amazon deforestation than the country’s consumption of beef or soy. In 2022 alone, Swedish coffee demand was linked to the loss of around 331 hectares of forest — the equivalent of 463 football fields. One of the authors explained that global discussions often highlight soy and livestock production, leaving the role of coffee less recognized.

Sweden ranks among the highest coffee-consuming nations in Europe, with an average of 12.3 kilograms per person per year. Several countries — including Lithuania, Estonia and Luxembourg — consume even more.

The study also found that the environmental impact varies significantly depending on the origin of the coffee beans. The European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), intended to restrict products tied to forest destruction, was scheduled to take effect on 30 December 2025. However, the European Parliament decided to postpone its implementation by one year. A German MEP stressed that Europe’s demand for coffee, cocoa, beef and similar goods results in roughly 100 trees being cut or burned every minute and called for the regulation to be applied as soon as possible.

The Morning Brew and Youth: Study Uncovers Coffee’s Major Impact on Biological Aging

Moderate Coffee Intake May Slow Cellular Aging in Severe Mental Illness

Dubai – Qahwa World

Groundbreaking research published in BMJ Mental Health suggests that consistent, moderate coffee intake could offer significant cellular anti-aging benefits for individuals grappling with major psychiatric disorders. Scientists found that consuming three to four cups of coffee daily was associated with notably longer telomeres—the core markers of biological aging—potentially translating to years of cellular protection.

Telomeres are the protective caps found on the ends of chromosomes. While the natural shortening of telomeres is a fundamental part of the aging process, this deterioration is often accelerated in people diagnosed with severe mental illnesses (SMI), including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

The Telomere Link: An Equivalent of 5 Younger Biological Years
The observational study, which included 436 adult participants, measured telomere length from white blood cells and analyzed self-reported daily coffee consumption, finding a distinct J-shaped curve correlation.

Specifically, participants who consumed 3 to 4 cups of coffee per day exhibited telomere lengths comparable to being five biological years younger than their non-coffee-drinking counterparts. This significant finding held true even after rigorous statistical adjustment for influential factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, specific type of mental illness, drug treatment, and extensive tobacco use history.

Why Moderation is Key: Antioxidants vs. Overdose Risk
It is a critical finding that the protective effects did not continue for participants who reported drinking five or more cups daily.

Researchers noted that this is consistent with international public health guidelines, which recommend limiting daily caffeine intake to a maximum of 400 mg (approximately four cups of coffee). They caution that exceeding this limit may, conversely, cause cellular damage and telomere shortening through the formation of reactive oxygen species.

The protective mechanism is attributed to the rich presence of powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds found in coffee. Since telomeres are highly susceptible to oxidative stress and inflammation, these compounds may help mitigate the core biological processes that accelerate aging in this vulnerable population.

This study highlights a potential, biologically plausible pathway for how a globally popular beverage—with estimated consumption reaching 10.56 billion kilos in the 2021-2022 period—might support cellular integrity and combat accelerated aging in major mental illnesses.

Coffee Prices Settle Lower Despite Inventory Tightness

Dubai – Qahwa World

Coffee futures closed lower on Wednesday, primarily due to an improved global supply outlook after a key European regulation was delayed. March arabica coffee (KCH26) settled down -3.60 (-0.94%), and January ICE robusta coffee (RMF26) closed down -46 (-1.01%).

The principal downward pressure on coffee prices stemmed from the European Parliament’s approval of a one-year delay to the Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This regulation, which aims to combat deforestation in countries exporting key commodities like coffee to the EU, will now allow EU countries to continue importing agricultural products from regions in Africa, Indonesia, and South America where deforestation may be occurring. This delay ensures a more ample and continuous flow of global coffee supplies into the European market.

Further reinforcing the bearish outlook are strong production forecasts. StoneX predicted last Wednesday that Brazil’s coffee production for the new 2026/27 marketing year will hit 70.7 million bags, representing a significant year-over-year increase of +29%. Arabica production is specifically forecasted at 47.2 million bags. Signs of increasing robusta supplies are also evident in Vietnam. The country’s Jan-Oct 2025 coffee exports rose +13.4% year-over-year to 1.31 MMT. Furthermore, the 2025/26 coffee production is projected to climb +6% y/y to a four-year high of 29.4 million bags (1.76 MMT), a forecast supported by the Vietnam Coffee and Cocoa Association (Vicofa).

Despite the overall downward movement, losses were limited by several supportive factors, including adverse weather and tightening inventories. Arabica prices found support due to dryness in Brazil’s largest arabica-growing region, Minas Gerais, which received only 49% of its historical average rainfall in the week ended November 21. Robusta prices were also supported by forecasts of heavy showers in Vietnam’s Dak Lak province, which is expected to further delay the harvest in the world’s largest robusta producer.

Shrinking ICE coffee inventories have also been supportive of prices. ICE-monitored arabica inventories fell to a 1.75-year low of 398,645 bags last Thursday, and robusta inventories hit a 6.25-month low on Wednesday. This drawdown has been largely attributed to the previous US tariffs imposed on coffee imports from Brazil, which caused US buyers to void new contracts and tightened US supplies. However, arabica coffee experienced a sharp tumble last Friday after President Trump signed an executive order late Thursday that exempted Brazilian food products, including coffee, from those tariffs, potentially easing supply concerns moving forward.

Finally, there are mixed signals from global supply data. The International Coffee Organization (ICO) reported on November 7 that global coffee exports for the current marketing year (Oct-Sep) fell slightly by 0.3% y/y to 138.658 million bags, suggesting tighter global supplies recently. The USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) projects world coffee production in 2025/26 to increase by +2.5% y/y to a record 178.68 million bags, but forecasts a -1.7% decrease in arabica production, offering mixed signals.

In summary, the near-term supply outlook, bolstered by the EU regulation delay and massive Brazilian crop forecasts, outweighed the temporary support from weather issues and shrinking inventories, pushing coffee prices lower for the day.

From Opium to Coffee: The Story of Myanmar’s Farmer Transformation

Hopong, Myanmar – Qahwa World

In a landmark moment for sustainable development in Myanmar, the Green Gold Cooperative (GGC) has inaugurated its central coffee processing plant in southern Shan State, marking a significant shift for communities that historically relied on opium poppy cultivation.

The facility reflects a decade-long journey during which farmers have transitioned from planting their first coffee seeds to managing a fully autonomous and self-sustaining production process, demonstrating that legal and sustainable livelihoods are achievable even in areas long affected by opium cultivation.

From Poppy Fields to Sustainable Coffee

Myanmar remains the world’s leading producer of illicit opium, generating an estimated USD 518 million annually in rural areas characterized by poverty and insecurity. For over 30 years, Alternative Development programmes have supported communities in replacing illicit crops with sustainable alternatives.

GGC exemplifies this effort. Since 2015, when 530 farmers replaced opium with coffee, the cooperative has grown to include more than 1,000 producers across 48 village committees. Its mission extends beyond improving livelihoods, aiming to establish a sustainable, community-owned business.

In 2019, GGC became Myanmar’s first Fairtrade-certified coffee producers’ organization, allowing farmers to invest Fairtrade premiums in social projects and production improvements. These funds also enabled the purchase of the land where the new processing plant now stands.

From Opium to Coffee: Myanmar Farmers Transform Their Livelihoods

A Modern Facility for Production and Quality

Construction began three years ago with support from Switzerland, enabling GGC to process green coffee beans locally. The final phase, completed with support from the Government of Japan, added office space, roasting and packaging areas, and a fully equipped laboratory for coffee quality analysis.

The new facility allows GGC to process, roast, and package coffee independently, reducing reliance on third parties and unlocking new market opportunities. It also provides a modern space for training, innovation, and quality control, strengthening the cooperative’s competitiveness in international markets.

“This achievement reflects the communities’ commitment to creating real alternatives to illicit economies,” said UNODC Country Manager Yatta Dakowah. “It is a clear example of how sustainable livelihoods can replace poppy cultivation when farmers are empowered and supported.”

Between 2018 and 2024, GGC exported over 1,000 tons of green coffee, generating USD 5.48 million in income and earning recognition as a symbol of quality, sustainability, and inclusion.

From Opium to Coffee: Myanmar Farmers Transform Their Livelihoods

Celebrating Partnership and Progress

On 25 September 2025, over 250 participants attended GGC’s annual general assembly and the inauguration ceremony. The event brought together farmers, government representatives, and international partners, including delegates from Finland and Italy, representatives of JICA, and Shogo Yoshitake, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Japan in Yangon, who symbolically handed over the key to the new facility.

Elina Korhonen, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Finland, praised GGC’s inclusive governance, noting its gender-balanced board and encouraging further participation of women in leadership roles.

The inauguration underscores how collaborative initiatives and sustainable development projects can transform communities historically dependent on illicit economies into models of legal, community-driven prosperity in Myanmar.

Coffee May Protect Against Irregular Heartbeat, New Study Finds

Dubai – Qahwa World

A new study by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and the University of Adelaide has challenged long-standing medical advice discouraging people with atrial fibrillation (A-Fib) from consuming coffee.

The study, published on November 9 in JAMA, found that drinking at least one cup of caffeinated coffee or an espresso a day reduced the risk of A-Fib recurrence by 39%. Traditionally, patients with heart rhythm disorders were advised to avoid caffeine, fearing it could trigger rapid or irregular heartbeats.

Dr. Gregory M. Marcus, electrophysiologist at UCSF Health and senior author of the study, explained that coffee may have multiple benefits: “Coffee increases physical activity, which helps reduce atrial fibrillation. Caffeine is also a mild diuretic that can lower blood pressure, while several coffee compounds have anti-inflammatory effects.”

The research team, in a trial aptly named DECAF (Does Eliminating Coffee Avoid Fibrillation?), enrolled 200 coffee-drinking patients diagnosed with persistent A-Fib or atrial flutter. Participants scheduled for electrical cardioversiona procedure that restores normal heart rhythmwere randomly divided into two groups: one consumed caffeinated coffee daily for six months, while the other abstained completely from caffeine.

Results showed a significant drop in A-Fib recurrence among coffee drinkers. Researchers believe that in addition to its biological effects, coffee consumption might reduce reliance on less healthy drinks.

Lead author Christopher X. Wong, Ph.D., from UCSF and the University of Adelaide, summarized the findings: “Doctors have always advised patients with A-Fib to limit coffee, but this trial suggests that coffee is not only safeit may actually be protective.”

A-Fib currently affects over 10 million adults in the United States, and with an aging population, it could impact up to one in three people. This study opens a new perspective on how moderate coffee consumption might play a beneficial role in cardiovascular health.

Fecal Bacteria Found in Tap Water Disrupts Coffee Service in Utrecht, Netherlands

Utrecht – Qahwa World
Coffee and tea service has been temporarily suspended in many cafés, restaurants, universities, and hospitals across the Dutch city of Utrecht after the discovery of Enterococcus bacteria in the tap water — a sign of possible fecal contamination. The incident has raised public concern and disrupted daily routines across the city.

The water company Vitens has advised residents to boil water for at least three minutes before drinking or cooking with it. The restrictions are expected to remain in place until at least Tuesday, November 4, pending confirmation that the water is safe. As a result, getting a cup of coffee or tea has become difficult in public institutions, including Utrecht University and the University Medical Center.

Hospitality businesses have had to adapt quickly to the emergency. Jan Hagenouw, head of the Utrecht branch of Koninklijke Horeca Nederland (KHN), said the sector is showing “remarkable flexibility.” Some establishments have begun rinsing glasses with Spa Rood mineral water, while others have stopped serving dishes like salads that require washing with tap water. Customers may also notice the absence of ice cubes in cold drinks — existing ice stocks are being reserved for select beverages such as whisky.

Cultural venues have also been affected. The Stadsschouwburg Theater is now using coffee machines filled only with boiled water and has advised visitors to bring bottled water. The TivoliVredenburg concert hall has temporarily reduced coffee and tea service as well.

At Utrecht University, all coffee machines in campus buildings have been shut down, although lectures and exams continue as planned. The university has urged students and staff not to drink tap water or use electric kettles and to bring boiled water and ready-made meals from home, since campus cafeterias may be closed.

Meanwhile, coffee producer Douwe Egberts, headquartered in Utrecht and owned by JDE Peet’s, confirmed that its production “remains completely safe and operational.” The company said it has implemented additional measures, including disabling cold-water dispensers and setting up dedicated water stations, while continuing to follow Vitens’ guidance closely.

The water contamination has also triggered a rush on bottled water in local supermarkets. Shelves at Aldi, Jumbo, and Albert Heijn were emptied quickly as customers stocked up. Jumbo reported delivering 7,500 liters of water to regional stores in a single day, while Albert Heijn urged customers to stay calm and “avoid panic buying.”

Within the city’s hospitality community, the water crisis has become a dominant topic of conversation — particularly about washing, rinsing, and water management. As KHN’s Hagenouw noted, “In hospitality, creativity is always essential. But we hope clean water will return soon — people’s patience won’t last forever.”

7 Scientifically Proven Tips to Make Your Daily Coffee Healthier

Dubai – Qahwa World

For millions, coffee is more than just a morning ritual—it’s the spark that starts the day. Yet few realize that the way coffee is brewed, sweetened, or even timed can make a big difference to one’s overall health. Drawing on scientific research and expert insights, here are seven proven ways to enjoy your coffee while maximizing its benefits and minimizing its drawbacks.

1. Keep the Sugar Minimal

Adding too much sugar can undermine coffee’s natural health advantages. Research suggests that limiting sweeteners to one small teaspoon per cup helps retain the drink’s antioxidant and heart-friendly effects.

2. Skip Artificial Sweeteners

While marketed as low-calorie options, artificial sweeteners may interfere with the body’s natural metabolism and gut health. Studies indicate they could reduce coffee’s beneficial impact on longevity and overall wellness.

3. Choose Natural Additions

Most commercial creamers are packed with vegetable oils and added sugars, which can raise cholesterol and contribute to weight gain. A healthier alternative? Use milk in moderation or add spices like cinnamon or cocoa powder for flavor without the extra calories.

4. Filter Your Coffee

Coffee brewed through a paper filter is generally healthier than unfiltered methods like the French press. Paper traps compounds known as diterpenes, which have been linked to increased cholesterol levels when consumed in excess.

5. Don’t Dismiss Instant or Decaf

Whether it’s ground, instant, or decaffeinated, coffee can still provide similar antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. The process used to produce instant coffee typically preserves most of the natural compounds that make coffee good for you.

6. Drink It Earlier in the Day

Caffeine affects the body’s internal clock. Studies show that drinking coffee before noon helps avoid sleep disruption and reduces inflammation associated with circadian rhythm disturbances. Late-night cups, by contrast, can suppress melatonin and affect sleep quality.

7. Let Coffee Work with Your Digestive System

Coffee naturally stimulates the digestive tract—a reaction known as the gastrocolic reflex. That’s why many people feel the urge to visit the restroom shortly after drinking it. Far from being harmful, this effect is part of a healthy digestive process.

Moderation, timing, and small adjustments can make your daily brew a powerful ally for well-being. By rethinking what you add to your cup—and when you drink it—coffee can remain both a pleasure and a healthy habit.

Disclaimer:

This article is intended for general information purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health concerns.

Regenerative Agriculture Boosts Vietnamese Coffee Farmers’ Income by 150%

Dubai – Qahwa World

Vietnamese coffee farmers have achieved a remarkable 150% increase in income by shifting to regenerative agriculture, an innovative approach that promotes environmental sustainability while improving crop quality and productivity.

According to a report by Nestlé Vietnam, the adoption of regenerative practices under the NESCAFÉ Plan has enabled farmers to save 40%–60% of irrigation water, reduce chemical fertilizers and pesticides by 20%, and significantly increase yields and income.

The initiative was highlighted during a seminar titled “The Role of Farmers in Regenerative Agriculture”, held on October 31 at the Nestlé Trị An factory in Dong Nai province, where more than 60 outstanding farmers and agricultural sustainability experts gathered to celebrate success stories from the program.

Binu Jacob, Managing Director of Nestlé Vietnam, stated during the event: “At Nestlé, people are at the heart of our sustainability journey. The NESCAFÉ Plan represents a long-term commitment to support farmers in implementing regenerative agriculture to enhance their income and quality of life.”

Jacob added that close cooperation with farmers is vital to building a more sustainable future for Vietnam’s coffee industry, reflecting Nestlé’s dedication to both environmental and social responsibility.

Truong Hoang Phuong, Director of Nestlé Trị An Factory, emphasized that farmers are the starting point of coffee quality, saying: “The quality of coffee begins in the field. Farmers are the foundation of success, while the factory amplifies their efforts by bringing this value to global markets.”

The event also featured a tour of the factory’s modern coffee processing facilities, where farmers learned about production technologies and the journey of Vietnamese coffee beans now exported to over 40 international markets, including Europe, Japan, South Korea, and the United States.

Farmers shared their experiences in adopting regenerative agriculture and digital farm management to improve soil health and productivity. Dao Duy Quynh, a farmer from Gia Lai province, said:

“The program completely changed how we work. We learned to farm in ways that protect the environment while increasing our income.”

Since its launch in 2011, the NESCAFÉ Plan has delivered more than 467,000 training sessions on sustainable coffee farming, provided improved seedlings to around 21,000 farmers annually, and distributed over 86 million high-yield, pest- and drought-resistant plants, helping rejuvenate over 86,000 hectares of aging coffee farms.

This transformation marks a significant milestone in promoting sustainable coffee production in Vietnam, supporting a greener and more responsible coffee economy, and reinforcing the country’s position as one of the world’s leading coffee producers and exporters.

 

EU’s New Deforestation Law Proposal Sparks Frustration Among Brazilian Exporters and Raises Coffee Market Concerns

São Paulo – Qahwa World

A new European Commission proposal to relax the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) has triggered frustration among Brazilian coffee, soybean, and beef exporters, who were among the first to invest heavily in sustainable supply-chain compliance to secure early access to European markets.

According to a Rabobank report seen by Reuters, the proposed changes — which include postponing enforcement deadlines and easing penalties — could undermine the financial incentives that originally drove agribusinesses to adopt deforestation-free practices ahead of schedule.

The current law requires exporters of coffee, cocoa, palm oil, soy, wood, and beef to the European Union to provide due-diligence statements proving that their products are not linked to deforestation.

Under the new proposal, large companies would begin compliance checks from June 30, 2026, while smaller firms with fewer than 50 employees would have until December 30, 2026 to submit their declarations.

Rabobank analyst Marcela Marini emphasized that the delayed enforcement could erode the competitive advantage of those who acted early: “Companies that invested ahead of time were aiming for preferential access to the European market. The absence of fines and delayed enforcement weakens the incentive for sustainability premiums.”

The report also warned that the revision may disrupt global coffee supply chains, especially as the industry intensifies efforts toward traceability and environmental transparency.

The European Parliament is expected to review the proposal in the coming weeks. If approved, the regulation will still take effect in 2025, but with softer requirements and extended timelines — a move that some experts fear could dilute Europe’s commitment to fighting deforestation and impact the global push for sustainable coffee production.