Introduction
Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages globally, with over 2.25 billion cups drank per day. Over 70 countries around the world produce coffee, but some nations have become synonymous with coffee production. Keep reading to learn the top 10 coffee-producing countries worldwide.
Brazil
Brazil is the world's largest coffee producer, responsible for over 40% of the global coffee supply. The country produces primarily Arabica coffee known for its mild, nutty flavor. Coffee growing in Brazil is centered in Minas Gerais, Sāo Paulo, and Paraná, where the climate and temperature are ideal. High-quality Brazilian coffee brands include Bourbon Santos, Mundo Novo, and Typica.
Vietnam
Vietnam has rapidly expanded its coffee production over the past few decades, becoming the world's second largest producer. Robusta coffee, known for its harsher and more bitter taste, makes up 97% of Vietnam's coffee. It grows well in the country's tropical highland climate. Coffee exports are a major part of Vietnam's economy.
Colombia
Columbia is third in global coffee production and the largest producer of washed Arabica beans, which have a clean, fruity, and acidic flavor. The unique bean quality comes from Colombia's ideal tropical climate, rich soil, and artisanal growing techniques. Colombian coffees are marketed by their growing regions, with the most famous being Medellín, Manizales, and Armenia.
Indonesia
As both a major producer and consumer, Indonesia plays a key role in the global coffee trade. The country ranks fourth in worldwide production. Indonesian coffee is known for a smooth, thick body and low acidity. Popular growing regions include Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Bali, and Papua. Both Arabica and Robusta beans are cultivated.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia is considered the birthplace of coffee, with cultivation beginning as early as the 9th century. Today, the country is the 5th largest producer, focusing on Arabica beans native to the region. Ethiopian coffees have a bright, fruity flavor with floral and citrus notes. Important growing areas include Harar, Limu, and Sidamo.
Honduras
Central America has become a major coffee powerhouse, led by Honduras as the 6th top producing nation. Honduran coffee is mildly acidic, sweet, and aromatic. The western plateau region provides high altitudes and nutrient-rich soil. Some notable Honduran beans include Copán, Opalca, and Marcala.
India
India sticks mostly to Robusta bean cultivation, representing just 3% of global Arabica supply. But the country has become the 7th largest coffee producer thanks to rapid expansion. The main growing region is Karnataka in southern India. Monsooned Malabar coffee, unique to India, has a smooth, nutty character.
Mexico
Mexico has increased its coffee production in recent years, now ranking 8th globally. High-quality Arabica coffee grows in the coastal regions of Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Chiapas. Altitude and active volcanoes create nutrient-rich soil. Mexican coffees have light, nutty notes with mild chocolate undertones.
Guatemala
Guatemalan coffee ranks 9th in world production. The country focuses on the prized Antigua coffee bean grown on the volcanoes around Antigua valley. This coffee is sweet, bright, and complex. Other notable regions include Atitlán, Fraijanes, and Huehuetenango.
Peru
Closing out the top 10 is Peru, which has become a major specialty coffee producer in South America. Rich soil, high altitudes, and microclimates allow for exceptional bean growth. Peruvian coffees are well-balanced, sweet, and clean. Major growing zones include Chanchamayo, Cusco, and Pangoa.
coffee brands from these countries
Brazil:
- Coffee Couture
- Oi Café
- Brazil Yellow Bourbon
Vietnam:
- Trung Nguyên
- Vinacafe
- Me Trang
Colombia:
- Juan Valdez
- Café Quindío
- Azahar Coffee
Indonesia:
- Java Frinsa
- Kopi Luwak
- Extravaganza Coffee
Ethiopia:
- Yirgacheffe
- Sidamo Coffee
- Volcanica Coffee
Honduras:
- Marcala Coffee
- Capucas Coffee
- Beneficio San Vicente
India:
- Cothas Coffee
- Blue Tokai
- Halli Berri Estate
Mexico:
- Café Punta del Cielo
- Mexicano Coffee
- Counter Culture El Cuatro
Guatemala:
- La Bella Tostada
- Café Noj
- Heart of the Mayans
Peru:
- Café Britt
- Cafe La Rosa
- Cafe Tunki
Conclusion
From South America to Asia and Africa, the top coffee-producing nations reflect the global reach of this beloved beverage. Next time you brew up a batch, consider trying single-origin beans from one of these noteworthy coffee capitals!