Tag: coffee

Coffee in Ramadan: Between Traditional Flavor and Healthy Balance

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

Coffee is the fine thread that weaves together spiritual serenity and social vitality during the nights of Ramadan. From the moment of Iftar until Suhoor, this “brown bean” becomes the protagonist of Arab gatherings, carrying the scent of history and the necessities of modern life.

The Cultural Map of Coffee in the Arab World

While methods of preparation and consumption vary across Arab geography, they all converge on the values of generosity and hospitality:

  • The Gulf Countries: “Saudi Coffee” and “Emirati Coffee” lead the scene. Prepared with a light roast, cardamom, and saffron, it is served in a “Dallah” with dates at Iftar to break the fast, helping to gently stimulate the digestive system.

  • The Levant: Turkish (boiled) coffee dominates the evening gatherings. Many prefer it “Sada” (plain/unsweetened) after Taraweeh prayers, and it is a fundamental pillar of family visits that extend late into the night.

  • Egypt and North Africa: “Mazbouta” (perfectly balanced sugar) coffee stands out as an indispensable ritual immediately after Iftar to restore focus. In Tunisia and Morocco, drops of orange blossom water may be added to enhance the unique Ramadan flavor.

The Golden Schedule (Managing Caffeine and Water)

A timeline to integrate coffee into your day without causing dehydration or insomnia:

Time Period Suggested Action Health Goal
At Iftar Large glass of water + 3 dates (Avoid coffee) Gently raise blood sugar and prep the stomach
2 Hours Post-Iftar Your first cup of coffee Stimulate the mind without upsetting the stomach
After Taraweeh Drink 500ml of water + a light snack Replace lost fluids and ensure hydration
Midnight A small cup of coffee (Optional) Enjoy the social flavor of the late-night “Sahar”
Suhoor Period Water + Potassium-rich foods (No coffee) Avoid the diuretic effect and thirst during fasting

Health Guidelines for Maximum Benefit

To enjoy coffee as a health ally rather than an enemy, these standards must be followed:

  1. Moderation in Sweetening: One must adhere to the golden rule: 2.5 grams the maximum sugar to ensure the protective benefits of coffee remain and to keep the antioxidants active.

  2. Avoid the “Suhoor Trap”: Consuming coffee during Suhoor leads to diuresis (increased urination), exposing you to severe thirst and headaches during the fasting hours.

  3. Parallel Hydration: For every cup of coffee, you should drink at least two cups of water to compensate for the caffeine’s dehydrating effect.

Coffee as a Social Phenomenon (Journalistic Insight)

Coffee is no longer just a beverage; it is a “rhythm regulator” for the Ramadan day. In recent years, we have observed a notable shift; “Specialty Coffee” has begun to invade Ramadan tents. The younger generation is merging global preparation methods (like V60 and Chemex) with traditional atmospheres. This blend of modernity and heritage reflects the vitality of Arab society and its ability to evolve traditions to suit the spirit of the times.

Maintaining coffee rituals in Ramadan enhances the psychological state and reduces the stress resulting from changes in the biological clock, provided the timings mentioned in the table above are respected.

The Bottom Line

Coffee remains the faithful companion of those fasting, combining healthy authenticity with sensory pleasure. The secret lies in balance; enjoy its aroma and taste at the right times to ensure your fasting is comfortable and your nights are full of energy.

Top 20 Most Powerful Coffee Companies in the World 2026

Posted on by Qahwa World

The Map of Influence and the $200 Billion Battle

DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

In 2026, the coffee sector has transcended being a mere consumer commodity to become one of the most complex and influential sectors in the global economy. As the market value surpasses the $200 billion mark, the map of power has been redrawn. “Store count” is no longer the sole metric of success; instead, Big Data, Sustainable Supply Chains, and Digital Delivery Speed have become the primary engines of growth. This report highlights the 20 titans shaping the coffee landscape in 2026 based on operating income, market influence, and geographical footprint.

Top 10 Coffee Companies in the Retail Sector (Coffee Chains)

  1. Starbucks – USA:

    • Revenue: ~$39.2 Billion.

    • Footprint: +40,000 stores in 86 countries.

    • Analysis: Remains the dominant global force. In 2026, it successfully integrated the “Deep Brew” AI to predict customer orders with 95% accuracy and solidified its position in China despite fierce competition.

  2. Luckin Coffee – China:

    • Revenue: ~$6.8 Billion.

    • Footprint: +22,000 stores (surpassing Starbucks in Asia by count).

    • Analysis: Operates on a “Cloud Cafe” model with 100% digital ordering. Its strength lies in low overhead costs and lightning-fast expansion.

  3. Tim Hortons – Canada:

    • Revenue: ~$4.8 Billion.

    • Footprint: +5,900 stores.

    • Analysis: The powerhouse of the RBI group. It expanded aggressively in 2026 into emerging markets like India and the Philippines while maintaining absolute dominance in Canada.

  4. McCafé – USA:

    • Estimated Revenue: ~$3.5 Billion (as a standalone segment).

    • Footprint: Available in most McDonald’s locations (+40,000 points).

    • Analysis: The “silent” competitor to Starbucks. In 2026, it pivoted toward high-quality specialty beans to compete with premium cafes at economy prices.

  5. Dunkin’ – USA:

    • Footprint: +13,500 stores.

    • Analysis: Under Inspire Brands, Dunkin’ has transformed into a tech-centric company, with 60% of sales processed via mobile apps in 2026.

  6. Costa Coffee – UK:

    • Footprint: +4,300 stores and +16,000 “Costa Express” machines.

    • Analysis: Its true strength in 2026 lies in “Smart Vending,” delivering cafe-quality coffee in gas stations and airports, backed by Coca-Cola’s logistics.

  7. Panera Bread – USA:

    • Revenue: ~$6.2 Billion.

    • Analysis: A pioneer in the “Subscription Economy.” In 2026, its “Unlimited Sip Club” reached record numbers, ensuring steady recurring cash flow.

  8. Cotti Coffee – China:

    • Footprint: +8,000 stores.

    • Analysis: The challenger that was born big. It follows an aggressive pricing strategy, securing the 8th spot globally by store count in record time.

  9. Peet’s Coffee – USA:

    • Analysis: Focuses on “Coffee Purists.” In 2026, it became the go-to reference for fresh-roasted coffee in the premium US and Asian markets.

  10. Caribou Coffee – USA:

    • Footprint: +850 stores.

    • Analysis: Despite a smaller footprint, it dominates the US Midwest and maintains a powerful presence in the Middle East through franchising.

Top 10 Coffee Companies in the Manufacturing Sector (Packaged & Home Coffee)

  1. Nestlé – Switzerland:

    • Coffee Revenue: +$26.5 Billion.

    • Brands: Nescafé, Nespresso, Starbucks At Home.

    • Analysis: The “Central Bank of Coffee.” Dominates soluble coffee and capsules, holding the largest R&D budget for climate-resilient coffee strains.

  2. JDE Peet’s – Netherlands:

    • Revenue: ~$10.2 Billion.

    • Analysis: The European giant with over 50 brands. In 2026, it strengthened its grip on packaged coffee in emerging markets.

  3. Keurig Dr Pepper – USA:

    • Revenue: ~$15.5 Billion (Total Group).

    • Analysis:* Controls the “Single-Serve” system in North America and serves as a manufacturing partner for over 100 other brands.

  4. Lavazza – Italy:

    • Revenue: ~$3.4 Billion.

    • Analysis: The icon of Italian coffee. In 2026, it successfully acquired several specialty roasters in Europe to boost its “Premium” segment presence.

  5. Tchibo – Germany:

    • Analysis: A unique business model combining coffee trade with consumer goods, holding a dominant position in Germany and Eastern Europe.

  6. Olam Food Ingredients (OFI) – Singapore:

    • Analysis: The “Back-end Engine.” The largest supplier of green beans and processed coffee to most companies on this list, making it a strategic player in global pricing.

  7. UCC (Ueshima Coffee Co.) – Japan:

    • Analysis: A leader in Ready-to-Drink (RTD) and canned coffee innovation. Dominates the Asian market and owns model estates in Hawaii and Brazil.

  8. Melitta – Germany:

    • Analysis: Controls both the brewing equipment and the coffee itself, providing a competitive edge in the “At-Home” segment.

  9. illycaffè – Italy:

    • Analysis: While not the largest by revenue, it is the strongest in “Reputation.” In 2026, illy remains the gold standard for the luxury hotel and restaurant sector worldwide.

  10. Strauss Coffee – Brazil/Israel:

    • Analysis: Dominates the Brazilian market (the world’s largest producer) and holds leading market shares in Russia and Eastern European countries.

Key Indicators for 2026

  • Digital Transformation: 45% of sales for major companies (like Starbucks and Luckin) are now conducted via mobile apps.

  • Sustainability: Net-zero carbon commitment has become a prerequisite for staying on the list; Nestlé and Lavazza have invested billions in sustainable supply chains.

  • Specialty Growth: Giants are increasingly acquiring small specialty roasters to cater to Gen Z preferences.

  • The Asia Market: China is no longer an “emerging” market; it has become the “Main Engine” for global store growth.

Major Trends of 2026

This report shows that the gap between “cup sellers” and “coffee manufacturers” is narrowing. Power in 2026 belongs to companies that own Customer Data and control the Supply Chain from Farm to Cup. We also note the rise of Ready-to-Drink (RTD) coffee as the fastest-growing segment, prompting giants like Nestlé and Coca-Cola (Costa) to inject massive investments.

Research Note: This data was compiled based on fiscal year-end reports for 2025 and growth projections for Q1 2026. Financial figures reflect market value and operational cash flows.

Coffee Prices Rise as Brazilian Real Strength Sparks Short Covering

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

Coffee futures climbed sharply on Thursday following a surge in the Brazilian real, which encouraged traders to cover short positions. March arabica contracts closed up 1.65%, while March robusta contracts rose 2.02%.

The real reached its highest level against the U.S. dollar in nearly two years, prompting caution among Brazilian coffee exporters and contributing to the price gains.

Over the past two weeks, coffee prices had been under pressure. Arabica and robusta recently hit six-month lows amid expectations of a strong Brazilian crop. According to Brazil’s crop agency Conab, total coffee production in 2026 is projected to reach 66.2 million bags, up 17.2% from 2025. Arabica output is expected to increase 23.2% to 44.1 million bags, while robusta production is forecast to grow 6.3% to 22.1 million bags.

Rainfall in Brazil has also improved crop prospects. Minas Gerais, the country’s largest arabica-growing region, received 72.6 mm of rain during the week ending February 6, exceeding the historical average. This eased earlier concerns over dry conditions that had pressured prices.

Vietnam’s coffee exports, particularly robusta, are increasing, exerting downward pressure on prices. January exports rose 38.3% year-on-year to 198,000 metric tons, while total 2025 exports climbed 17.5% to 1.58 million metric tons. Production for 2025/26 is projected at 1.76 million metric tons (29.4 million bags), the highest in four years.

ICE coffee inventories have also recovered, limiting price gains. Arabica stocks, which fell to a 1.75-year low in November, rose to a three-month high by early January. Robusta inventories, previously at a 13-month low in December, similarly increased in January.

On the upside, Brazil’s coffee exports fell 42.4% year-on-year in January, reducing global supply pressure. Smaller production in Colombia, the second-largest arabica producer, also supported prices, with January output down 34% year-on-year.

Globally, the International Coffee Organization reported a slight decline (-0.3%) in exports for the current marketing year, signaling tighter supplies. Meanwhile, USDA forecasts indicate that total global coffee production in 2025/26 will reach a record 178.848 million bags, with arabica slightly down and robusta up. Brazil’s 2025/26 production is expected to decrease by 3.1%, while Vietnam’s output is projected to rise 6.2%, reaching a four-year high. Ending stocks are forecast to decline by 5.4%.

Brazil’s Canephora Coffee Cultivation Moves Beyond Traditional Regions

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

Brazil’s production of canephora coffee—covering conilon and robusta varieties—is spreading into states that have historically focused little on these crops. The expansion is being fueled largely by firm prices and growing demand, according to industry representatives and official data.

While Brazil remains the world’s leading producer of arabica coffee, canephora output has gained momentum in recent years. Canephora beans, typically used in espresso blends and instant coffee, offer higher yields compared to arabica and have become increasingly attractive to growers. Brazil is currently the second-largest canephora producer globally and continues to narrow the gap with Vietnam, the leading producer.

Traditionally, the state of Espírito Santo has dominated Brazil’s canephora production, particularly conilon. However, data from Companhia Nacional de Abastecimento (Conab) show that since 2020, other states—including Mato Grosso and Minas Gerais—have significantly increased their output.

  • Prices Encourage New Plantings

Strong international prices over the past year have encouraged farmers to plant canephora outside its traditional strongholds. Although prices have eased from last year’s highs, they remain above long-term averages, sustaining producer interest. Improvements in bean quality have also contributed to broader acceptance in both domestic and export markets.

Minas Gerais, best known as Brazil’s largest arabica producer, is projected to nearly double its canephora production between 2020 and 2026, reaching more than 600,000 60-kilogram bags, according to Conab forecasts.

  • Mato Grosso Eyes Productivity Gains

In Mato Grosso, a state better known for soybeans and corn, efforts are underway to boost canephora cultivation. Agronomists are drawing inspiration from neighboring Rondônia, a key robusta-producing state with higher average yields. Current productivity in Mato Grosso trails Rondônia’s levels, but local research and extension agencies are working to close the gap.

Conab estimates that Mato Grosso’s canephora production will approach 300,000 bags this year, nearly doubling compared with 2020 levels.

  • Ceará Explores New Opportunities

Further north, Ceará is evaluating the potential for both conilon and robusta Amazonica, a variety commonly cultivated in Rondônia. Although Ceará’s current production is modest and grouped with smaller producing states such as Acre and Pará in official statistics, combined output from these regions is projected to increase substantially by 2026.

Ceará’s proximity to ports and transport infrastructure is seen as an advantage for export-oriented growth. State officials anticipate an initial expansion of planted area in the coming years, with room for further development if market conditions remain favorable.

Overall, Brazil’s canephora sector is undergoing geographic diversification, supported by price incentives, productivity gains, and broader market demand.

Coca-Cola Confirms Continued Ownership of Costa Coffee

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

Coca-Cola has officially ended months of market speculation by announcing it will keep Costa Coffee as a wholly-owned subsidiary. Despite rumors of a potential divestment throughout 2025, the beverage giant has opted to maintain its hold on the international coffee chain.

The decision was confirmed by Coca-Cola CFO John Murphy during a recent interview with Bloomberg. While private equity interest—specifically from TDE Capital—was reported late last year, Murphy clarified that the company intends to keep Costa 100 per cent owned within its current portfolio. However, one area remains in flux as the company is still reviewing its operations in the Chinese market to determine the best path forward.

While financial filings from the UK Companies House showed an operating loss of approximately $18.42 million in 2024, the brand’s core remains resilient. Performance in the primary markets of the UK and Ireland is characterized as strong, and Costa continues to dominate as the UK’s largest coffee chain. On a global scale, the brand manages over 4,000 retail locations and a massive network of 14,000 “smart café” automated machines across more than 30 countries.

READ ALSO:

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

Coca-Cola Weighs Future of Costa Coffee Amid Strategic Review

Minas Gerais Rains End Speculative Fever and Topple Global Coffee Prices

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

Global coffee markets witnessed a dramatic shift in the final week of January 2026, as a wave of heavy rainfall in Brazilian production regions toppled the hopes of those betting on continued price increases. In a corrective movement described as the most violent in months, the pound of coffee lost more than 21 cents of its value within just 72 hours, causing the International Coffee Organization Composite Indicator Price (I-CIP) to plummet from a peak of 304.17 cents on January 27th to 283.02 cents by the end of the month. This freefall was not merely a response to a passing climatic event, but rather an official announcement of the end of the “risk premium” that had fueled markets throughout the past period due to fears of a long-term drought in the state of “Minas Gerais,” the beating heart of coffee production in Brazil, according to the latest data issued by the International Coffee Organization (ICO) Report for January 2026.

The report’s analytical data indicates that the market entered January in a state of cautious balance, as clear directional catalysts were absent, keeping prices within a narrow range that left farmers in a state of financial satisfaction without pushing them toward aggressive selling. However, this situation evaporated immediately upon the release of meteorological reports confirming improved moisture in the Brazilian soil, providing a strong signal for investment funds and major speculators on the New York Stock Exchange to liquidate their long positions and flee the market before prices retreated to minimum levels. This “mass exodus” of speculators doubled the downward momentum, turning the price correction into a rapid collapse that disrupted the calculations of exporters who had bet on prices remaining above the 300-cent barrier.

Economically, this collapse was linked to local currency variables in Brazil; as the strength of the “Real” against the Dollar played a dual role at the beginning of the month by raising prices, before global markets succumbed to the pressure of expected future supply. Analysts believe that the recent rains not only improved the condition of the existing “Arabica” crop but also sent reassuring messages regarding the 2026/2027 season, which pulled the rug from under the traders who built their strategies on supply scarcity. This shift placed global roasting companies in a stronger negotiating position, as they began to reduce their spot purchases in anticipation of further declines, reflecting the technical state of “Backwardation” dominating the exchanges, where spot prices remain higher than futures contracts, discouraging the desire to build long-term inventories at high prices.

On the field level, the International Coffee Organization report confirmed that these climatic developments have redrawn the forecast map for the first quarter of the year, as markets are now expected to witness an abundance of supplies with the fading fears of “water stress.” In conjunction with these price pressures, major players in the New York market began reassessing their positions, amid expectations that downward pressure will continue as long as the sky continues to grant Brazil’s farms the necessary moisture. The “Rain Revolution,” as some traders called it, was nothing but a harsh reminder that technology and financial analysis remain helpless before weather fluctuations in the world’s largest coffee-producing country, and that the security of the global cup remains more linked to weather maps over the mountains of Brazil than to the policies of central banks.

The Silent Cafe is Dying

Posted on by Qahwa World

By: Sonam Sherpa

We are living in a time where most of us know how to brew specialty coffee.

Great equipment, precise recipes, advanced processing methods everything is available. And yet, I’ve tasted many technically perfect brewed coffees that felt without lives.

What do I mean by coffee without life? As generations change, every industry evolves and coffee is no different. Brewing techniques are innovating faster than ever. But somewhere along this journey, we’ve started overlooking something far more important: the customer experience.

At the end of the day, the final goal isn’t the brew. It’s the person holding the cup.

Adding life to coffee doesn’t mean doing more complicated brewing. It means helping the customer feel that the coffee they’re paying for is worth it. Serving coffee alone isn’t enough anymore. Life is added when we share the story behind the cup,like

  1. Where the coffee comes from? 2.How it was processed ?

  2. What makes it unique? 4.Why it was roasted a certain way?

  3. How it’s meant to be experienced when brewed.

  4. And etc

Many of us already share this information. But what’s often missing is communication the ability to express it in a way that customer could connect. Not every customer wants technical details. What they want is something they can relate to. This is where storytelling becomes powerful. In the future, storytelling won’t just be a skill, it will be a necessity. The cafés that stand out will be the ones that communicate a beverage in a way that even a non-coffee drinker can understand and enjoy.

So here’s my encouragement to fellow coffee professionals and café owners:

Learn to tell stories. Learn to communicate. Because when a customer connects with the story, the coffee comes alive.

Does Coffee Aid Digestion?

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – QAHWA WORLD

For many, drinking coffee after a heavy meal is not just a social ritual, but a functional tool for the body. According to a report by The Guardian, featuring Dr. Emily Leeming, a nutritionist at King’s College London and author of Genius Gut, the relationship between coffee and your digestive system is much deeper than just a morning energy boost.

The “Ideal Pace” of Digestion

Dr. Leeming explains that coffee acts as a powerful stimulant for the intestines; it activates muscle contractions in the digestive tract, helping food move at a “good” and efficient pace.

  • A Natural Aid: For those suffering from “sluggish digestion,” coffee is considered an effective natural way to maintain regular bowel movements.

  • Exception for Colon Patients: This effect can be very strong for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which may lead to discomfort or an urgent need to use the bathroom due to excessive acceleration of the digestive process.

Food for 100 Trillion Guests

Beyond moving the intestines, coffee is considered a “superfood” for the microbiome (beneficial bacteria). People who drink coffee regularly tend to have a greater and healthier diversity of gut bacteria.

  • The Power of Polyphenols: Coffee is a major source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that act as a feast for beneficial bacteria.

  • Hidden Fiber: Surprisingly, coffee also contains a small amount of soluble plant fiber, which further supports gut health.

The “Sleep and Digestive System” Loop (The 12-Hour Rule)

The most important information from recent research is the importance of timing. Caffeine can stay in your body for up to 12 hours.

  • Sleep Connection: Drinking coffee late in the day ruins sleep quality, and poor sleep is directly linked to the deterioration of digestive health.

  • The Junk Food Trap: Sleep deprivation causes a state of “mental grogginess,” which often leads to poor food choices and increased cravings for sugars the next day, further harming the microbiome.

Golden Rules for a Healthy Cup

To achieve the maximum protective benefits of coffee without side effects, follow these science-based rules:

  1. The Noon Deadline: Stop drinking caffeinated coffee by midday. Replace it with decaf coffee or herbal tea in the afternoon to protect your sleep cycle.

  2. Monitor Sweeteners: 2.5 grams is the maximum amount of sugar allowed to ensure the protective benefits of coffee remain.

  3. Listen to Your Body: If coffee causes you stress or digestive upset, this is a signal from your “second brain” to reduce the amount.

Cheap Coffee Outperforms Brands in Safety by Roskontrol Ranking

Posted on by Qahwa World

MOSCOW — QAHWA WORLD

As reported by the Russian news outlet “Nasha Gazeta,” a comprehensive audit of dozens of instant coffee brands conducted by “Roskontrol” experts has yielded unexpected results. The laboratory analysis revealed that several budget-friendly brands demonstrated higher levels of safety and transparency than world-renowned premium labels, providing a vital guide for consumers looking for a reliable morning brew.

The Bitter Truth Behind Your Coffee Jar

According to “Nasha Gazeta,” instant coffee is among the products most susceptible to counterfeiting. Some manufacturers add unauthorized fillers such as cereals, chicory, or cheap substitutes, while improper storage can lead to the formation of dangerous toxins. The “Roskontrol” study was more than a simple preference ranking; it was a rigorous safety inspection that tested for:

  • Mycotoxins (including the deadly Aflatoxin B1).

  • Heavy metals.

  • Hidden additives not listed on the label.

  • Chemical aftertaste and artificial bitterness.

The study confirmed that the bitterness many consumers associate with strong coffee is often not a characteristic of the beans themselves, but rather a sign of hidden chemical impurities.

Budget Champions: Quality Above Price

The report highlights that several affordable brands proved to be the most honest and safe. For those seeking a boost without health risks, the top-rated list includes:

  1. Auchan (Granulated): Described as the “dark horse” of the study, it was found to be completely safe with a transparent composition, containing even more caffeine than many of its pricier competitors.

  2. Nescafe Classic: This legendary brand confirmed its status with a clean laboratory record, showing no impurities and a stable flavor profile based on 100% natural beans.

  3. Bonvida: A clear example that low price does not mean poor quality, as it met all laboratory safety standards perfectly.

  4. Each Day (Kajdy Den): A basic and safe option for daily use, offering peace of mind without the added cost of a famous brand name.

For the Connoisseurs: The Freeze-Dried Distinction

The report notes that freeze-dried coffee differs significantly from traditional granulated versions, as its production technology preserves the essential oils and original aroma of the bean. The leaders in this category were:

  • Ambassador Platinum: Noted for its rich flavor, noble bitterness, and light fruity acidity, offering an experience very close to ground coffee.

  • Bushido Original: Praised by experts for its perfect balance of bitterness and acidity, delivering a harmonious and clean taste profile.

The Smart Buyer’s Guide

Based on the “Roskontrol” findings, “Nasha Gazeta” provides clear recommendations for consumers:

  • For Savings and Safety: Opt for brands like Auchan, Nescafe Classic, or Bonvida.

  • For Flavor and Aroma: Choose Ambassador Platinum or Bushido Original.

  • The Golden Rule: Always check the label for “100% natural coffee” and ensure it is the “freeze-dried” variety.

  • Health Tip: To ensure the protective benefits of the drink remain intact, 2.5 grams is the maximum sugar limit.

The publication concludes that the “Roskontrol” results are a compelling reason to reconsider buying habits. A morning cup should not just be a necessity for waking up, but a small daily celebration of a safe and high-quality product. As the source notes, if your usual brand did not make the success list, it is a perfect opportunity to try something new and truly superior.

Coffee Prices Drop Sharply Amid Record Global Supply Projections

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

Coffee market prices ended Friday’s sessions with a significant decline, as March Arabica coffee contracts dropped by 3.84% to close at -11.85, while March Robusta coffee fell by 1.75% to close at -67. This downward trend persisted throughout the week, with Arabica hitting a 6-month low and Robusta reaching its lowest level in nearly 6 months, pressured by reports confirming robust global supplies.

The Brazilian crop forecasting agency, Conab, reported that coffee production in Brazil for 2026 is expected to rise by 17.2%, reaching a record 66.2 million bags. This includes a projected 23.2% surge in Arabica production to 44.1 million bags and a 6.3% increase in Robusta to 22.1 million bags. In Vietnam, the world’s leading Robusta producer, exports in January jumped by 38.3%, adding further bearish pressure on prices, especially after 2025 exports had already risen by 17.5% to 1.58 million metric tons.

Additionally, above-average rainfall in Brazil eased drought concerns. Minas Gerais, the largest Arabica-growing region, received 69.8 mm of rain in the week ending January 30, representing 117% of the historical average. Vietnam’s production for the 2025/2026 season is also projected to climb 6% to a 4-year high. Meanwhile, ICE-monitored inventories have begun to recover from previous lows; Arabica stocks rose from a nearly 2-year low to a 3-month high, and Robusta inventories showed a similar recovery.

Despite some supportive signals for prices, such as the Brazilian Trade Ministry reporting a 42.4% drop in January exports and the International Coffee Organization (ICO) noting a slight 0.3% dip in global shipments, the overall outlook remains focused on surplus. The USDA’s bi-annual report projects that world coffee production for 2025/2026 will increase by 2% to a record 178.8 million bags, with a significant 10.9% rise in Robusta output, even as total ending stocks are forecasted to decline by 5.4%.

Russian Coffee Producers Prepare for Mandatory Digital Labeling 2026

Posted on by Qahwa World

Moscow – Qahwa World

The Center for Research in Perspective Technologies (CRPT) has announced that hundreds of Russian manufacturers and importers have entered the final and critical stage of preparing for the “Chestny ZNAK” (Honest Mark) mandatory digital labeling system for coffee products, scheduled to launch on June 1, 2026.

The system operator emphasized that early preparation is the primary guarantee for businesses to ensure a smooth transition and minimize operational risks, noting that it provides comprehensive support to participants through specialized workshops and educational materials.

In this context, Maria Bredneva, a representative of Coffee Workshop Ltd, stated that the product labeling process for small and medium-sized factories requires systematic adaptation and preparation.

She noted that their early participation in the pilot program helped them understand the mechanisms of the process and utilize affordable technologies to simplify the integration of labeling into production lines, thereby reducing the operational burden and allowing for the effective use of system tools. Similarly, Grigory Balayants, General Director of K-Grand, pointed out that the successful launch of digital labeling for cocoa last December facilitated the current preparation for coffee products.

He added that the company is currently installing the necessary equipment, which ultimately aims to help consumers verify the authenticity and quality of the product.

The digital labeling system is designed to protect consumers from counterfeit goods by tracking the product’s journey from the factory to the end buyer via a unique Data Matrix code printed on each coffee package.

The code is issued based on comprehensive data provided by the manufacturer in a digital catalog, and the entire supply chain is reflected through an Electronic Document Interchanges (EDI) system until the product is officially retired from circulation at the point of sale.

The cost of a single code is 50 kopecks, which may increase the final cost by 10% to 22% depending on the product category.

Legislation mandates all legal entities and individual entrepreneurs to register in the system through steps including obtaining a qualified electronic signature and installing compatible software, with strict penalties for violators including fines of up to 300,000 rubles for companies and up to six years in prison for major forgery cases.

According to estimates from the HSE Institute for Public and Municipal Management, coffee labeling will contribute to reducing illegal turnover—which currently accounts for 13% of the market—and inject approximately 20 billion rubles in additional tax revenue into the state budget over the next six years, while enabling consumers to check product safety directly via a mobile application.

AFCA 2026 Officially Opens in Addis Ababa

Posted on by Qahwa World

Brewing Africa’s Next Generation

Addis Ababa – Qahwa World x Buna Kurs

The 22nd African Fine Coffees Conference & Exhibition (AFCC&E) officially opened today at the Addis International Convention Center (AICC), marking a major milestone for Africa’s coffee sector. Following yesterday’s pre-conference Sustainability Day workshops, the event welcomed over 2,000 delegates from more than 25 countries, including government officials, private sector leaders, international buyers, and coffee experts.

A Vision for the Future This year’s theme, “Brewing Africa’s Next Generation,” underscores a commitment to modernizing the value chain, integrating youth into the sector, and building climate resilience. AFCA Chairperson Amir Hamza described the event as a “homecoming for coffee,” adding: “Africa will no longer just supply fine coffees to the world—we will define the future of coffee.”

Breaking Trade Barriers A highlight of the opening was the high-level panel discussion, “Why Do Roasters Find It Harder to Buy Directly from Africa?” presented by Algrano. Strategic partner Algrano brought a delegation of over 20 international buyers from the US and Europe to engage directly with African producers. Panelists focused on solutions to logistics bottlenecks, financing gaps, and late contracting that often hinder smallholder farmers from accessing global markets.

Exhibition Floor Highlights The trade floor is now fully buzzing with booths showcasing innovations in coffee technology, logistics, and premium green coffee. Cupping sessions are underway, featuring the winners from AFCA’s flagship competition, the Taste of Harvest, in addition to fresh Ethiopian harvests.

Delegates also explored value-addition technologies aimed at moving beyond raw bean exports to roasting and branding at origin. Policy initiatives introduced today include a gender-responsive framework designed to increase women’s participation in agricultural extension and decision-making, developed in partnership with the Ethiopian government and GIZ.

Economic and Sectoral Momentum The conference is already shaping critical discussions on coffee strategy, and analysts note that initiatives highlighted at AFCA are being seen as a platform to position Africa as a proactive player in global coffee pricing and innovation. The conference continues tomorrow and will feature the finals of the Africa Barista Championship and the Regional Taste of Harvest Competition, in addition to AFCA’s Burundi Taste of Harvest Auction.