Coffee is one of the most traded agricultural commodities globally, playing a vital role in the economies of many countries. Coffee exporting countries include: Brazil, VietNam, Indonesia,…Each country offers unique coffee characteristics shaped by climate, geography, and farming traditions. As global coffee consumption continues to grow, these exporting nations remain essential to the world’s coffee supply. Every year, millions of tons of coffee beans are exported worldwide to meet the growing demand of consumers. Below are the largest coffee exporting countries in the world, based on production volume, export value, and global market influence.
Brazil has been the largest coffee exporter in the world for decades. The country accounts for around one-third of global coffee production. Brazil mainly exports Arabica coffee, known for its smooth flavor, as well as Robusta coffee used in instant coffee products.
Key export markets include the United States, Germany, Italy, and Japan. Favorable climate conditions, advanced farming techniques, and large-scale plantations help Brazil maintain its top position.
Vietnam is the second-largest coffee exporter globally and the world’s leading exporter of Robusta coffee beans. Vietnamese coffee is widely used in instant coffee, espresso blends, and commercial beverages.
Major export destinations include the European Union, the United States, and Asia. Vietnam’s competitive pricing and high output make it a key player in the global coffee supply chain.
In January 2023, coffee exports to the top 10 markets were led by Germany with 21,487 tons, followed by Italy with 17,274 tons, the US with 10,901 tons, Russia with 10,087 tons, Belgium with 9,282 tons, Spain with 5,984 tons, Japan with 5,846 tons, the Netherlands with 3,312 tons, Indonesia with 3,245 tons, and South Korea with 3,041 tons. (According to the February Agricultural, Forestry, and Fisheries Newsletter).
In the Chinese market, coffee exports in the first four months of 2023 reached 13,420 tons, valued at US$40.38 million. Vietnam is currently the third largest supplier of raw coffee and processed coffee products to the Chinese market.
According to data from the Chinese Customs Administration, the country’s coffee import rate increased by an average of 25.1% per year between 2017 and 2022. Therefore, this is considered a market where businesses can go further.
Colombia is famous for producing high-quality Arabica coffee with a mild, well-balanced taste. Coffee exports are a major source of income for the country and support millions of farmers.
Colombian coffee is highly valued in premium markets such as the United States, Canada, and Europe, thanks to strict quality control and strong branding.
Indonesia is one of the largest coffee exporters in Asia, known for both Arabica and Robusta varieties. The country is famous for specialty coffees such as Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi.
Currently, Indonesian coffee production is predominantly Robusta, with only about 25% being Arabica. One of Indonesia’s specialty coffees is Kopi Luwak. This is a limited-edition civet coffee, making it highly sought after in many countries. According to statistics, in 2020, Indonesia’s coffee exports accounted for 5.5% of all coffee exports worldwide.
Indonesia exports coffee mainly to the United States, Europe, and Japan. Its unique volcanic soil contributes to distinctive flavor profiles.
Ethiopia is widely recognized as the birthplace of coffee and one of Africa’s top exporters. Ethiopian coffee is known for its floral aroma and fruity acidity.
Coffee exports play a crucial role in Ethiopia’s economy, with major markets including Germany, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.
Honduras has become the largest coffee exporter in Central America. The country focuses mainly on Arabica coffee and has gained recognition for improving quality standards.
Honduran coffee is exported primarily to the United States and Europe, especially Germany and Belgium.
The global coffee market is dominated by a few key exporting countries, led by Brazil and Vietnam, followed by Colombia, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Honduras. Each country offers unique coffee characteristics shaped by climate, geography, and farming traditions. As global coffee consumption continues to grow, these exporting nations remain essential to the world’s coffee supply.
