USA

USA's Coffee Industry

Coffee production in the United States is concentrated in Hawaii and Puerto Rico, with Arabica as the sole commercially grown variety. Robusta is not cultivated domestically. In 2023, Hawaii, the only US state with a commercial coffee industry, produced approximately 24,000 60-kg bags of Arabica. Puerto Rico contributed around 10,000 bags. These volumes are small compared to global producers, and the U.S. remains a net importer of green coffee.

Production models vary by region. In Hawaii, farms range from smallholder plots to larger family-run estates. Over 1,000 farms operate across 7,400 acres on five islands, with most plots under five acres. Cooperative models exist but are less dominant than in Latin America. Puerto Rico’s coffee sector is recovering from hurricane damage and relies on public-private partnerships and government subsidies to rebuild infrastructure and replant trees.

Climate challenges are significant. Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall are reducing yields and increasing pest pressure, particularly from coffee leaf rust and the coffee berry borer. In Hawaii, growers are shifting cultivation to higher elevations to maintain bean quality. Wildfires in Maui and droughts during flowering stages have further stressed crops. Farmers are adapting through shade-grown cultivation, organic soil management, and reforestation efforts.

Political challenges include trade policy volatility and tariff threats. Domestic growers face labor shortages and rising input costs, with limited federal support for specialty crop resilience.

For UK and EU Buyers

Shipping coffee from the U.S. to the UK typically takes 6 to 10 business days via standard international services such as USPS Priority Mail International. Express options like FedEx and DHL can deliver in 1 to 3 business days. Air freight is common for specialty shipments.

For UK and EU buyers, Hawaii offers traceable, high-quality Arabica with strong estate and cooperative credentials. While volumes are limited, the region’s reputation for specialty coffee and rigorous grading make it ideal for niche sourcing. However, climate volatility, labor constraints, and high production costs require strategic engagement and long-term planning.