Coffee Market Update: Prices Surge, Tariffs Shift, Brands Expand
Coffee Prices Surge Amid Prolonged Rains
Coffee prices in Vietnam’s Central Highlands spiked sharply on November 19, 2025, with prices rising between 3,200 and 4,100 VND/kg due to persistent rains affecting harvests. In Lam Dong province, prices reached 112,600 VND/kg, while Dak Lak’s Cu M’gar area saw purchases at 113,700 VND/kg. On international markets, Robusta futures for January 2026 delivery closed at $4,540 per ton on the London Stock Exchange, up 1.27% from the previous day. Arabica futures for December 2025 delivery on the New York Stock Exchange rose 2.43% to 412.35 US cents/pound (Baonghean, 19 November 2025).
US Tariff Exemptions Reshape Coffee Trade Flows
The Trump administration announced the removal of tariffs on most imported coffee beans, benefiting roasters and importers in the US. However, Brazil continues to face a 40% tariff, making its coffee less competitive in the US market. Experts predict this will shift US coffee purchases toward Asia and Latin America, with robusta benefiting from the exemptions. The move follows bipartisan efforts by US representatives to protect supply chains and jobs (Reuters, 19 November 2025).
Lavazza Accelerates Retail Growth in China
Lavazza is expanding its retail footprint in China, leveraging its Italian heritage and local innovations such as buffalo milk latte and dessert-inspired drinks. The company is increasing local roasting capacity and broadening product ranges across online and offline channels, aiming to drive further growth in the Chinese market (Global Coffee Report, 19 November 2025).
Anno Robot Deploys AI Coffee Stations in 60 Countries
By November 2025, Anno Robot’s AI-powered coffee stations are operational in airports and high-traffic hubs across more than 60 countries. The technology offers automated, consistent coffee service, marking a significant shift in airport and public space coffee retail (EIN Presswire, 19 November 2025).
Direct Trade Gains Strategic Importance Amid Volatility
With coffee price volatility continuing in 2025, direct trade is increasingly seen as a strategic business asset rather than just an ethical choice. Roasters are reevaluating sourcing strategies to balance values and profitability, especially as climate change and tariffs add complexity to supply chains (Perfect Daily Grind, 19 November 2025).
