Brewing success: How Brazil is riding the robusta wave

Despite the global economic downturn impacting coffee consumption in developed countries, global coffee demand grew by 0.7% annually from 2018 to 2023. Amid global supply constraints, Brazil is ramping up its exports of robusta coffee, known for its higher caffeine content, disease resistance, and economic viability.

Thanks to its versatility and cost-effectiveness in products like iced and ready-to-drink coffees, robusta is gaining popularity in the global market. Instant coffee remains a particularly significant format, accounting for 23% of global consumption and expected to grow, especially in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

Brazil’s soluble coffee industry relies heavily on robusta coffee and has seen significant strategic investments, particularly in Espírito Santo, driven by rising global and domestic demand. With a reduction in robusta supply from Vietnam, Brazil is poised to dominate the market, supported by substantial investments exceeding BRL 1.5 billion and a strong focus on exports.

As Brazil’s robusta coffee production continues to grow, projections suggest Brazil could become the world’s largest producer within a decade, driven by advancements in farming techniques and sustainable practices.

The sector holds significant potential to attract investors from various segments of the supply chain, beyond just the food industry. With the rising global demand for coffee, we see an interesting opportunity for coffee growers and investors to expand robusta coffee production.