The Brewing Challenges: Analyzing the Surge in Coffee Prices and the Influence of Durian Cultivation in Asia

Unprecedented Rise in Coffee Prices

Coffee lovers have undoubtedly noticed a recent surge in coffee bean prices, which has been particularly pronounced for Robusta beans in Asia. By late April, the international price of Robusta beans hit a record high. This increase is attributed to a combination of adverse weather conditions in the production areas and the burgeoning coffee markets in Asia. Additionally, the extensive cultivation of durian in Southeast Asia has contributed to a reduction in coffee farming land, thereby pushing coffee prices even higher.

The Struggle of Local Cafes in Vietnam

In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Café Zan, owned by Nguyen Phan Zan, exemplifies the challenges local cafes face due to soaring ingredient costs. Celebrated for its ‘Egg Coffee,’ a local delicacy that combines the robust bitterness of locally sourced Robusta beans with the sweet froth of whipped eggs, Café Zan has been pressured by the rising costs of coffee beans and eggs. To cope, Zan has diversified the café’s offerings to include bread and coffee beans for sale, striving to maintain an affordable price point for a cup of coffee while enhancing daily revenue.