Brazil

Brazil's Coffee Industry

Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer, with an estimated 65 million 60-kg bags forecasted for the 2025/26 season. Arabica makes up around 40.9 million bags, while Robusta (Conilon) contributes approximately 24.1 million. In 2023, Brazil exported 30.81 million bags of Arabica and 4.70 million bags of Robusta, generating $6.61 billion in export revenue.

Climate variability is a growing concern, particularly in Arabica-producing regions like Minas Gerais and São Paulo, where droughts, heatwaves, and erratic rainfall have disrupted flowering and reduced yields. Robusta-growing areas such as Espírito Santo and Bahia have seen more stable conditions, aided by irrigation and consistent rainfall, leading to a 15% increase in Robusta output. Nonetheless, extreme events like frosts and wildfires continue to pose risks to both varieties.

Political and economic pressures include inflation, rising input costs, and reduced stockpiles. Smallholder farmers are especially vulnerable, facing financial strain and lower productivity. Deregulation and tariff changes have opened Brazil’s market to foreign imports, increasing competition. Labour shortages and an aging farming population also challenge long-term sustainability.

Brazil’s coffee production is characterized by a dual model. Large-scale commercial farms dominate exports, using mechanization, high-density planting, and precision irrigation to drive efficiency. Meanwhile, the specialty sector is expanding, with producers in regions like Cerrado Mineiro and Mantiqueira de Minas focusing on traceability, regenerative agriculture, and quality-driven processing to meet global demand for differentiated coffees.

For UK and EU Buyers

Shipping times to the UK are relatively efficient. Sea freight from ports such as Santos or Fortaleza typically takes 28 to 30 days.

Brazil offers unmatched scale and diversity, making it a cornerstone origin for UK and EU roasters. Buyers should consider climate resilience, sustainability, and evolving production dynamics when planning sourcing strategies.