Strong market demand – WCR strives to increase global Robusta coffee production

Estimates from the World Coffee Research Organization indicate that Robusta coffee (C. canephora) has grown into a major coffee economic force over the past few decades. Total Robusta production has increased from 25% to 40% of total global coffee production over the past three decades. However, the continued success of Robusta is precarious, and its growth potential remains untapped. Meanwhile, the demand for Robusta coffee, is increasing day by day. The entire industry may face the risk of supply not meeting demand shortly. Therefore, WCR strives to promote the project of increasing global Robusta coffee production. This development is being organized in cooperation with relevant parties for advanced research and breeding and distribution to farmers around the world. Explore with XLIII Coffee!

It is forecast that coffee supply will not keep up with consumer demand

According to a report commissioned from AbacusBio, current levels of research & development in Robusta coffee research and breeding are insufficient to meet expected supply gaps or the market’s growing demand for quality. Most research and improvements tend to focus on Arabica. Robusta varieties often receive scorn because of their cup profile and market value. The world could face a shortage of Robusta coffee, that the analysis said, if consumption increases and the expected negative impacts of the climate crisis increase. Although Robusta is “stronger” than Arabica in many aspects, it is still difficult to avoid the effects of climate change or diseases and pests that cause heavy damage. In particular, without funding, the industry could face a shortage of up to 35 million bags by 2040.

phát triển Robusta toàn cầu

The industry could face a serious shortage of Robusta coffee by 2040

WCR strives to increase global Robusta coffee production

In early 2022, Arabica coffee prices reached their highest level in 10 years. Some specialty coffee roasters are starting to add Robusta coffee to their farms to increase profit margins. However, with resources of varieties and old farming methods, developing the value and quality of Robusta coffee varieties faces many difficulties and challenges. Faced with this situation, WCR initiated a project in 2023 to explore opportunities for increasing global Robusta coffee production through advanced research and breeding. In it, WCR negotiated to access Robusta coffee genetic materials created by the Center for International Cooperation and Agricultural Research (CIRAD). The genetic materials will be subjected to in-depth analysis to confirm their value as well as their ability to be distributed commercially. Potential genetic materials will then be used to initiate breeding programs (e.g., cross-breeding primary materials with each other) in 2024.

In addition to breeding experiments, WCR is also collaborating with key countries to participate in the global Robusta coffee breeding network. The project focus will be to support the continued supply of Robusta coffee from a variety of origins. WCR analysts expect to confirm project partners by the end of 2024. Partners will have access to conduct further breeding with these materials, commercialize the varieties with promising properties, modernize their breeding methods, and contribute to an invaluable global testing network to ensure the climate resilience of varieties.

phát triển Robusta toàn cầu

WCR is a pioneer in the global Robusta development project

Project activities aim to increase global Robusta coffee production, and the industry witness the emergence of new, unique considerations. Farmers can also access more quality varieties. If you want to experience high-quality specialty coffee beans, visit XLIII Coffee!

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