Exploring Brazil’s Specialty coffee regions: A journey of quality and flavor

Brazil has been the world’s largest coffee producer for over 150 years, growing approximately one-third of the global coffee supply. This impressive figure underscores Brazil’s significant role in the coffee industry.

Brazil’s position in the global coffee industry

Brazil’s leadership in the coffee industry is attributed to its favorable geographical and climatic conditions, including ample sunlight, fertile soil, and abundant water resources. These factors ensure Brazil’s dominant position in the coffee world, evidenced by several key points:

– High coffee production: With over 2.2 million hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation, Brazil produces an average of 43 million bags annually, meeting both domestic and international demand. Modern farming techniques and favorable natural conditions yield an average of 20-30 bags (60kg each) per hectare. As a result, Brazil’s coffee production accounts for 30-40% of the global coffee supply.

– Robust coffee exports: As the leading coffee exporter, Brazil supplies coffee to hundreds of countries worldwide. In October 2020, Brazil exported 4.1 million bags, an 11.5% increase compared to the same period the previous year, setting a new monthly export record.

– Diverse coffee varieties: Brazil cultivates a variety of Arabica and Robusta beans, with Arabica making up 70-80% of the production. Each variety offers distinct flavors, aromas, and body, influenced by Brazil’s diverse soils, climate, and cultivation methods.

Brazil maintains its leading position in the world coffee industry in terms of production.

The importance of coffee to Brazil’s economy

In the context of the national economy, Brazil’s coffee industry plays an incredibly significant and irreplaceable role. Coffee cultivation has generated substantial profits, created employment opportunities for farmers, and spurred the country’s economic development.

– A key export commodity 

Coffee is one of Brazil’s principal export commodities, contributing significantly to the nation’s foreign exchange earnings. Indeed, Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer and exporter, accounting for nearly one-third of global coffee production.

– Job creation 

The various stages of coffee production, including cultivation, harvesting, processing, transportation, and export, have created millions of jobs, addressing some of Brazil’s social welfare challenges. Particularly in rural areas, coffee is the primary source of income for many families. According to CafeImports statistics from 2017, approximately 360,000 farmers and laborers are employed by coffee farms.

– GDP growth 

Given its large production volume and top position globally, the growth of the coffee sector can influence Brazil’s entire economy. From agricultural production to supporting industries (such as machinery manufacturing, fertilizers, and agricultural chemicals) and financial services, coffee significantly impacts Brazil’s GDP. The profits from coffee have substantially contributed to national GDP and created numerous job opportunities.

– Rural development 

Rural areas, where coffee cultivation is predominant, play a crucial role in providing livelihoods. Investments in infrastructure, public services, and community development in coffee-growing regions have improved living conditions and boosted local economic growth.

The Brazilian coffee industry plays an extremely important, irreplaceable role, bringing large profits, solving employment issues for farmers, and promoting national economic development.

Known as the world’s largest coffee producer, Brazil has a vibrant and interesting history.

Introduction of coffee to Brazil

Coffee first arrived in Brazil in the 1700s, linked to land disputes between France and the Netherlands. According to industry records, Francisco de Melo Palheta, a Portuguese-Brazilian officer, obtained coffee seeds from Madame D’Orvilliers, wife of the Governor of Cayenne. After receiving the seeds in a bouquet, he planted the first coffee tree in Pará state in 1727. From there, coffee cultivation quickly spread southward, reaching Rio de Janeiro by 1770.

Coffee first arrived in Brazil in the 1700s thanks to a Portuguese-Brazilian officer who obtained coffee seeds through Madame D’Orvilliers, wife of the Governor of Cayenne.

Initially, coffee was grown only for domestic consumption, but demand surged in the Americas and Europe during the 19th century. This prompted the expansion of coffee plantations in states like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais. By 1830, coffee had become Brazil’s largest export, setting the stage for the robust coffee industry that would follow.

Development of the coffee industry through various periods

Brazil’s coffee industry has seen impressive historical milestones:

– Beginnings and spread (1727-1820): After its initial planting in Pará in 1727, coffee spread southward to Rio de Janeiro by 1770. Initially grown for domestic consumption, international demand sparked significant expansion in the 19th century.

– Export boom (1820-1888): From 1820, coffee plantations in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais began producing 20% of the world’s coffee. By 1830, coffee was Brazil’s largest export. Production increased, largely due to African slave labor. However, with growing anti-slavery movements and legal measures, slavery gradually declined and was abolished in 1888.

Coffee became Brazil’s largest export around 1830.

– Stabilization and expansion (1888-1945): In the early 20th century, Brazil maintained its leading position in global coffee production. The government implemented price stabilization programs, beginning with the Taubate Agreement in 1906. After World War I, international efforts to stabilize coffee prices were made through various agreements.

– Quality enhancement and diversification (1990-present): From the 1990s, Brazil focused on improving coffee quality. The Brazil Specialty Coffee Association (BSCA) was established, and competitions like the Cup of Excellence promoted specialty coffee development. Regions like Piata, Araponga, Vale da Grama, Piraju, and Carmo de Minas became famous for high-quality coffees.

The Brazilian coffee industry developed rapidly from the 18th to 19th century, holding a leading role in global coffee production.

Brazil has diverse coffee-growing regions, each with unique geographical and climatic characteristics.

Geographical location of major growing regions

The main coffee-growing regions in Brazil include:

– Minas Gerais: The largest coffee-growing region in southeastern Brazil, famous for Sul de Minas and Cerrado Mineiro.

– São Paulo: South of Minas Gerais, known for the Mogiana region.

– Espírito Santo: Northeast of Minas Gerais, known for Robusta (Conilon) and Arabica.

– Bahia: In northeastern Brazil, an emerging coffee region, especially Chapada Diamantina.

– Paraná: In southern Brazil, suitable for high-quality Arabica production.

The main coffee-growing regions of Brazil are concentrated in Minas Gerais, São Paulo, Espírito Santo, Bahia, and Paraná.

Climate and topography characteristics

Brazil has tropical and subtropical climates, with coffee-growing regions at 400-1,400 meters above sea level (masl):

– Minas Gerais: Mild climate, 800-1,300 masl.

– São Paulo: Moderate climate, 800-1,200 masl.

– Espírito Santo: Tropical humid climate, 400-1,000 masl.

– Bahia: Dry and semi-arid tropical climate, 800-1,200 masl.

– Paraná: Cool subtropical climate, 700-1,000 masl.

Most coffee-growing regions are located at altitudes from 400 to 1,400 meters above sea level (masl), each area having different climate types and natural conditions.

Impact of natural conditions on coffee quality

Natural conditions significantly influence coffee quality:

Elevation 

Higher elevations (above 1000 masl) often provide optimal conditions for coffee. Brazilian regions typically above 700 masl are suitable for both Arabica and Robusta. Areas around 1,200 masl produce slower-growing trees, yielding higher quality beans.

Climate 

Climate affects all stages of coffee production. Moderate climates with extended dry seasons help limit pests and create favorable harvesting conditions. Tropical humid climates can promote vigorous growth and diverse flavors.

Topography

Different landforms influence coffee development. Hilly terrain provides good drainage, while combinations of hills and plains create suitable microclimates for various coffee types.

The different climate types, elevation levels, and topographies in each coffee-growing region in Brazil create ideal microclimates for growing high-quality coffee.

Brazil cultivates various coffee varieties, primarily Arabica, with some Robusta production.

Arabica coffee

– Bourbon: One of the oldest Arabica varieties, with red (Bourbon Vermelho) and yellow (Bourbon Amarelo) variants. Beans are rounder than Typica and other Arabica varieties. Trees adapt well to altitudes of 1,000-2,000 masl, with high year-round rainfall and humidity. Flavor: Renowned for complex, sweet, and smooth flavor profile. Typically has fruit and floral notes, with subtle acidity and lingering aftertaste. Common flavor notes include caramel, honey, and fruits like berries and citrus.

– Mundo Novo: A Typica-Bourbon hybrid discovered in Brazil in the 1940s. Accounts for about 40% of Brazil’s coffee. Has good disease resistance and high yield. Flavor: Sweet, full-bodied taste with notes of chocolate, almond, and hazelnut, and low acidity. Provides a satisfying experience with a long, smooth, pleasant aftertaste.

– Catuai: A cross between Mundo Novo and Caturra, weather-resistant and high-yielding. Comes in both yellow and red varieties. Flavor: Natural sweetness reminiscent of honey or brown sugar. Offers fresh, complex, rich flavors including fruit notes like berries, apples, and citrus. Medium acidity, well-balanced with sweetness, creating a pleasant drinking experience.

– Caturra: A natural mutation of Bourbon first found in the town of Caturra, Brazil. Due to shorter stature, has higher yield than Bourbon parent. Better pest and disease resistance than traditional varieties. Flavor: Typically has bright acidity, giving the coffee a lively character. Fruit notes such as orange, apple, and berries add freshness and youthful appeal. Similar to Catuai, has a natural sweetness reminiscent of honey or brown sugar.

The main specialty coffee-growing regions primarily cultivate Arabica varieties, typically Bourbon, Typica, and Caturra.

Robusta coffee

– Characteristics

Beans usually smaller than Arabica, round, and uniform in size. Range from light to dark brown in color. Accounts for 20-30% of Brazil’s coffee production, known for excellent resistance to pests and diseases. Typically grown on lower-altitude farms with higher temperatures, mainly in smaller states like Espirito Santo (which provides 80% of Brazil’s Robusta) and Rondônia. Due to high yield, can meet large demands from both domestic and export markets.

– Flavor

Known for strong, bitter taste and less smooth than Arabica. Relatively low acidity, making flavor notes less vibrant and dynamic compared to specialty coffee. Often described as powerful, evoking wood, earth, and cashew notes, sometimes with a slightly burnt or smoky taste. Resulting cup typically has a thicker body, giving a heavier mouthfeel.

Robusta accounts for 20-30% of coffee production in Brazil, notable for its good resistance and excellent pest control ability.

To build its current thriving coffee industry, Brazil relies not only on natural gifts but also on the tireless efforts of farmers and producers. They continuously explore and improve cultivation techniques and processing methods to create exceptional coffee lots.

Coffee cultivation

The quality and quantity of Brazilian coffee result from a complex cultivation process involving several steps:

– Selecting plant varieties: Regions at 800-2,000 masl like Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Bahia are ideal for Arabica development. Lower regions like Espírito Santo and Rondônia (0-800 masl) are preferred for Robusta.

– Soil preparation: Soil is thoroughly tilled and supplemented with organic fertilizers to improve fertility and control pH levels.

– Irrigation: Brazil applies drip and spray irrigation techniques to ensure coffee trees receive sufficient water, especially during crucial stages like flowering and fruiting.

– Plant nutrition: Both organic and chemical fertilizers are used based on soil analysis and the coffee tree’s nutritional needs at various growth stages.

– Disease control and pest prevention: Weeds are controlled mechanically and chemically. Producers also select disease-resistant coffee varieties.

Brazilian coffee farmers place great importance on adhering to correct cultivation steps.

Coffee harvesting

The coffee harvest in Brazil typically starts around May and lasts until September. The exact timing depends on factors like cultivation area, weather conditions, and coffee variety. There are two harvesting methods in Brazil: manual and mechanical.

– Manual harvesting: This method is labor-intensive and time-consuming. Farmers hand-pick ripe cherries and sort them. It’s preferred in mountainous regions and on quality-focused plantations due to its excellent selective picking.

– Mechanical harvesting: This involves using harvesters equipped with ripeness sensors for automatic cherry selection. It saves time and labor but requires significant initial investment in modern machinery.

The choice of method depends on terrain, farm conditions, and the producer’s quality goals.

Coffee in Brazil can be harvested manually or by machine.

Coffee processing

– Dry processing (natural processing): After harvest, coffee is cleaned of impurities and spread on drying patios with cherries intact. Sun exposure allows beans to absorb flavor compounds from the fruit mucilage, creating sweetness, smoothness, and complexity. This method is complex and time-consuming (25-30 days drying), so Brazil has invested in new drying systems to prevent over-fermentation.

– Wet processing: This newer method removes four layers around the bean, resulting in “cleaner,” brighter, and more aromatic coffee. It’s less common than dry processing but offers a different flavor profile. The process involves sorting, washing, pulping, fermenting, and drying.

– Semi-wet processing (pulped natural): This method combines characteristics of dry and wet processing, absorbing mucilage sweetness like dry processing while retaining some acidity from wet processing. It’s popular in low-humidity areas where mucilage-covered beans can dry quickly without fermentation. Brazil has made this method famous, with 20 winners in the 2000 Brazilian Gourmet Cup competition using this process.

Brazil applies diverse processing methods for coffee.

Innovations in Brazilian coffee production

With technological advancements and increased awareness, coffee production in Brazil is becoming more progressive and efficient:

– Technology applications

– Crop management: Using sensors and big data to monitor soil conditions, water, and plant nutrition.

– Weather prediction: Analyzing weather data and environmental factors to predict yield and manage risks.

– Drip and spray irrigation systems: Providing necessary moisture while saving water, with automated control based on plant needs.

– Modern harvesting machinery: Ensuring consistent results and time savings with various advanced machines.

– Sustainable transition Sustainability is key for long-term development of the Specialty coffee industry. Brazilian producers are implementing:

– Organic fertilizers: Increasing use of organic fertilizers and sustainable farming practices to improve soil health and reduce environmental impact.

– Regenerative agriculture: Using regenerative farming techniques to improve soil quality and conserve biodiversity.

The coffee production process ensures consistent results and saves time through various types of modern machinery.

Each coffee-growing region in Brazil has its unique characteristics, resulting in distinct flavors and qualities for their coffees.

Minas Gerais 

Minas gerais is the largest coffee-growing region in Brazil, renowned for its high-quality Arabica beans. The distinctive characteristics of coffee from Minas Gerais include:

– Flavor: The coffee offers a rich, complex flavor profile with floral notes, berry hints, and nutty undertones.

– Acidity: It has a mild and balanced acidity, creating a fresh and refreshing taste.

– Structure: The coffee typically has a medium to full body, combined with natural sweetness and a smooth aftertaste.

São Paulo

São Paulo is one of Brazil’s most famous coffee regions, particularly areas like Mogiana and Garça. Coffee from São Paulo has the following characteristics:

– Flavor: It presents a sweet flavor profile with hints of chocolate, various nuts, and dried fruits.

– Acidity: The coffee has medium acidity, creating a round and pleasant taste.

– Structure: It usually has a medium to full body, with a smooth and lingering aftertaste.

Minas Gerais and São Paulo are the largest and most famous coffee-growing regions in Brazil.

Bahia 

Bahia, especially the Chapada Diamantina area, is known for high-quality coffee with these characteristics:

– Flavor: The coffee offers a unique flavor profile with hints of tropical fruits, nuts, and floral notes.

– Acidity: It has bright, fresh, and prominent acidity, creating a complex and distinctive taste.

– Structure: The coffee typically has a light to medium body, combined with a sweet and pleasant aftertaste.

Espírito Santo 

Espírito Santo is a diverse coffee-growing region, producing both Arabica and high-quality Robusta. The characteristics of coffee from Espírito Santo include:

– Flavor: It presents a strong, intense flavor with hints of dark chocolate, spices, and earthy notes.

– Acidity: The coffee has low acidity, creating a rich and smooth taste.

– Structure: It usually has a full body, combined with a long-lasting and intense aftertaste.

Given Brazil’s large production volume and diverse coffee varieties, quality control and classification must be carried out rigorously and logically by coffee producers.

Brazilian coffee classification system

Each coffee-producing country develops its own grading charts, but Brazil was the first country in the world to establish an official classification system and has the strictest standards for classification. Coffee standards in Brazil are mainly regulated by the Ministry of Agriculture (MAPA), which provides guidelines and regulations on various aspects of agricultural product quality and classification. They are also influenced by the Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) – an agency under the Ministry of Health related to food safety and hygiene.

– Size classification: Coffee beans are classified according to screen size, number of defects, and cupping quality. The size classification standard for export coffee ranges from screen 20 (very large beans) to screen 9 (very small beans).

– Bean quality classification:

 + Fine Cup (FC): Very few or no defects.

+ Good Cup (GC): Some minor defects.

+ Hard Cup (HC): Has defects, but not seriously affecting flavor.

Brazil FC SS 17/18 represents beans with few defects and the best quality, with a screen size of 6.75 – 7mm, equivalent to Kenya’s AA or Colombia’s supremo.

Each coffee-producing country develops its own grading charts, and Brazil was the first country in the world to establish an official classification system

Certifications achieved

Brazilian coffee is known for its high quality and many prestigious international certifications, ensuring that the products meet environmental, social, and economic standards, including:

– Rainforest Alliance Certified Conditions: Sustainable cultivation, effective water management, soil and forest protection, rational use of natural resources.

– UTZ Certified Conditions: Sustainable production, good farm management, environmental protection, ensuring safety and health for workers.

– Fair Trade Certified Conditions: Paying minimum prices and Fair Trade Premium fees, community development, protecting labor rights, ensuring safe working environments.

– Organic Certification Conditions: No use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, protection of soil and water sources, maintaining ecological balance.

– Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Conditions: Coffee achieving high cupping scores (above 80 points), no serious defects, complex and distinctive flavors.

– ISO 22000 Certification Conditions: Food safety management, risk control, traceability, and quality management.

– 4C (Common Code for the Coffee Community) Conditions: Sustainable cultivation, environmental protection, ensuring good and fair working conditions.

– Bird-Friendly Certification Conditions: Growing coffee under forest canopy, protecting bird habitats, organic cultivation.

These certifications not only ensure the quality of Brazilian coffee but also demonstrate the country’s commitment to sustainable and ethical coffee production practices.

Brazilian coffee is known for its high quality and many prestigious international certifications, ensuring that products meet environmental, social, and economic standards.

Despite its vast areas and position as the world’s leading coffee producer, Brazil does not completely dominate the global coffee industry. In the current volatile market context, the country faces many challenges and opportunities.

Climate change and its impact on the coffee industry

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing Brazil’s coffee industry. Changes in temperature and rainfall can affect coffee seasons and quality. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), a temperature increase of 1.5 to 2.5 degrees Celsius could reduce coffee production by up to 25% by 2050.

For example, the prolonged drought from 2014-2015 severely damaged coffee-growing regions in Minas Gerais and São Paulo, reducing Arabica coffee production to about 32 million bags (60kg/bag) compared to 35 million bags in 2013. Moreover, coffee-growing areas may need to move to higher altitudes to find suitable climate conditions, leading to increased production costs and changes in agricultural structure.

The prolonged drought from 2014-2015 severely damaged coffee-growing regions in Minas Gerais and São Paulo, reducing Arabica coffee production to about 32 million bags (60kg/bag).

Competition from other coffee-producing countries

Brazil also faces increasing competition from other coffee-producing countries such as Colombia, Vietnam, and Ethiopia. Many of these countries are entering the race to increase specialty coffee production, focusing on high quality and unique flavors to compete in the international market.

For instance, in 2022, Colombia exported about 13 million bags of coffee, mostly specialty coffee, generating higher revenue than conventional coffee. Additionally, Vietnam – the world’s second-largest coffee producer, has also improved the productivity and quality of its Robusta coffee. This could threaten Brazil’s market share in the international market. The rapid development of the coffee industry in these countries forces Brazil to improve product quality and seek more efficient production methods.

Sustainable development and Specialty coffee trends in Brazil

In the context of challenges and competition, sustainable development and specialty coffee trends are opening up new opportunities for Brazil’s coffee industry. Sustainability certifications such as Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, and Organic are becoming more popular, not only protecting the environment but also creating added value for products.

In 2020, about 40% of Brazil’s coffee production was produced according to sustainable standards, and this figure is expected to continue increasing. This helps improve the image of Brazilian coffee in the international market and meets the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.

Moreover, specialty coffees from regions like Minas Gerais and Bahia are increasingly popular due to their unique flavors and high quality. According to the Brazil Specialty Coffee Association (BSCA), Brazil’s specialty coffee exports increased from 1.5 million bags in 2010 to over 5 million bags in 2020. This growth not only reflects the development of the specialty coffee industry but also affirms Brazil’s position on the world coffee map.

Addressing challenges and seizing opportunities in the coffee industry will determine Brazil’s sustainable development in this field in the coming years.

In 2020, about 40% of Brazil’s coffee production was produced according to sustainable standards, and this figure is expected to continue increasing.

With its unique strengths, Brazil’s coffee industry not only contributes significantly to the national economy but also has a profound influence on the country’s socio-economic aspects.

Contribution to GDP and exports

Since colonial times, exports have played an essential role in Brazil’s economy, accounting for 35% of total coffee trade volume thanks to abundant land, various ideal climates and altitudes for cultivation, and advanced scientific and technological resources.

Since 1861, Brazilian coffee has dominated global exports. However, in 1929, the stock market crash reduced coffee consumption demand, resulting in supply exceeding demand. In the 1990s, Brazil began liberalizing farms, calling for investment and joining the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), positively impacting coffee exports. The early 2000s saw a coffee boom when the Chinese economy opened up and coffee demand increased, with coffee exports to China growing by 500% from 2005 to 2011.

Today, Brazil’s coffee exports average 60 million bags per year (60kg/bag), with the largest importing countries including the EU, Japan, and the US. The total global coffee production in 2020 was 175.3 million bags, of which Brazil accounted for 69 million bags, corresponding to 39%. Thus, Brazil has become the world’s largest coffee exporting country.

We can look at some impressive figures from Brazil’s coffee industry to see more clearly the position of this crop in the national economy:

– Coffee accounts for 5.6% of Brazil’s total export turnover

– Coffee contributes 5% to agricultural GDP

– Small farm size averages 10-100 ha per farmer

– There are 36 coffee-growing regions, each with its own distinct flavor profile

Currently, Brazil’s coffee exports average 60 million bags per year (60kg/bag type).

Job creation and rural development

Brazil’s coffee industry is one of the key industries, contributing significantly to job creation and economic development in rural areas. According to the Brazilian Coffee Association (ABIC), the coffee industry creates jobs for about 8.4 million people, including direct and indirect labor, accounting for a large part of the country’s agricultural workforce.

Coffee is mainly grown in rural areas such as Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Espírito Santo, where communities depend on this industry to maintain their livelihoods. The development of the coffee industry has promoted rural infrastructure construction, improved living conditions, and created job opportunities for many households.

Support programs for coffee farmers

Recognizing the importance of the coffee industry, the Brazilian government and international organizations have implemented many support programs for coffee farmers. One of the important initiatives is the “Cafe+Forte” program of the Brazilian Coffee Institute (IBC), which aims to provide financial, technical, and training support to farmers, helping them improve productivity and product quality.

In addition, sustainable certification programs such as Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade help farmers improve cultivation methods, protect the environment, and increase income. In 2020, about 40% of Brazil’s coffee production was produced according to sustainable standards, bringing great economic and social benefits to rural communities.

Furthermore, coffee cooperatives play an important role in supporting farmers in each locality in Brazil. For instance, the Cooxupé cooperative – one of the largest cooperatives in Brazil, has been established and operating for many years. Throughout its establishment until now, this organization has implemented many programs providing services such as technical advice, financial support, and training, helping farmers access international markets and enhance competitiveness.

The Brazilian government and international organizations have implemented many support programs for coffee farmers.

Conclusion

Brazil has affirmed its leading position in the world coffee industry with large production and high quality from famous growing regions such as Minas Gerais, Bahia, and others. Specialty coffee varieties such as Bourbon and Mundo Novo not only bring unique flavors but also build a reputation for Brazilian coffee in the international market. Moreover, when facing challenges from climate change and international competition, Brazil’s coffee industry is moving towards sustainable development and improving product quality. The trend of specialty coffee and sustainable standards such as Rainforest Alliance and Organic open up new opportunities, promising a bright future for Brazil’s coffee industry, maintaining its leading position in the world.

Question 1: What role does coffee play in Brazil’s economy? 

Coffee is a key export commodity for Brazil, generating significant foreign exchange earnings, providing employment for the population, and contributing considerably to the national GDP.

Question 2: What are the main coffee-growing regions in Brazil? 

The main coffee-growing regions in Brazil include Minas Gerais, São Paulo, Espírito Santo, Bahia, and Paraná.

Question 3: What are the common coffee varieties in Brazil? 

Common coffee varieties in Brazil include Arabica varieties such as Bourbon, Typica, Mundo Novo, Catuai, Icatu, and some Robusta varieties.

Question 4: What criteria does Brazil’s coffee classification system use? 

Brazil’s coffee classification system is based on criteria such as coffee bean size (according to screen size, from screen 20 to screen 9), number of defects, and cupping quality. Coffee beans can be classified as Fine Cup (FC), Good Cup (GC), and Hard Cup (HC) depending on the level of defects and their impact on flavor.

Question 5: What are the main challenges facing Brazil’s coffee industry? 

Brazil’s coffee industry is facing several challenges including climate change, competition from other coffee-producing countries, and the need for sustainable development. Climate change affects coffee seasons and quality. Meanwhile, competition from countries like Colombia and Vietnam requires Brazil to improve quality and production efficiency. Additionally, Brazil needs to meet the trends of sustainable development and specialty coffee to maintain and enhance its position in the international market.