China`s Coffee Market: Rapid Growth and Global Impact by Amit Gupta, Kedia Advisory
China's coffee consumption has surged by 150% over the past decade, driven by urbanization, younger demographics, and evolving preferences for higher-quality green coffee. Consumption is projected to reach 6.3 million 60-kg bags in 2024/25, with imports fulfilling a significant portion of demand. Production, concentrated in Yunnan Province, remains stable at around 2 million bags, with efforts to shift from Catimor to premium Arabica varieties like Bourbon and Typica. Import trends reveal Brazil and Colombia overtaking Vietnam and Indonesia as key suppliers of green coffee, reflecting shifting consumer preferences. China's transition from soluble coffee to locally roasted and origin-identified coffee signifies a dynamic market, poised to contribute significantly to global coffee demand.
Key Highlights
* China's coffee consumption has grown by 150% in a decade.
* Imports dominate, with forecasts of 6.3 million bags in 2024/25.
* Brazil and Colombia now lead green coffee exports to China.
* Yunnan Province drives local Arabica production, focusing on premium varieties.
* Transition from soluble to origin-identified coffee reshapes consumer habits.
China's coffee market has experienced exponential growth, with consumption increasing by 150% over the past decade. Forecasts suggest this trend will continue, reaching 6.3 million 60-kg bags in 2024/25. Despite steady domestic production of around 2 million bags, imports have filled the supply gap, highlighting China's role as a key player in global coffee trade.
The growing demand stems from a younger, urban demographic embracing coffee culture. Green coffee imports have seen a substantial rise, from 900,000 bags in 2014/15 to an anticipated 3.6 million bags in 2024/25. Brazil and Colombia now dominate the supply chain, reflecting the shift towards higher-quality coffee. Locally, Yunnan Province remains the hub of production, with growers diversifying from Catimor to premium Arabica varieties like Bourbon and Typica to compete with imports.
China's evolving coffee culture is reshaping the retail landscape, with domestic chains challenging international giants. Innovations such as online orders for delivery and in-store pickup have made coffee more accessible and affordable. The market's progression from soluble to locally roasted and origin-identified coffee highlights a sophisticated shift in consumer preferences. These developments position China as a major driver of global coffee demand, aligning with rising consumption trends in the EU and the US.
Finally
China's coffee consumption surge underscores its growing global influence. The shift toward premium coffee signifies a dynamic market with opportunities for both domestic and international stakeholders.
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