Italy is the leading coffee producer in Europe, with Germany being the largest importer in the EU. The European Union’s coffee production has increased by 15% over the last decade, with each EU citizen consuming about 5kg of coffee in 2023. The total production of coffee products, including roasted, decaffeinated, and substitute items, reached over 2 million tonnes last year, with a value of €13 billion. Italy produced a quarter (25%) of the EU’s coffee, followed by Germany (22%), France (6%), and the Netherlands (6%). In terms of imports, the EU brings in around 2.7 million tonnes of coffee each year, valued at €10.6 billion, with Germany accounting for 33% of imports, followed by Italy (23%), Belgium (10%), Spain (9%), and France (7%). Most of the EU’s coffee imports come from Brazil (34%), Vietnam (24%), and Uganda (8%).
However, a new EU law set to take effect in 2025 could have a significant impact on the coffee industry by requiring coffee makers to prove that their supply chain does not contribute to deforestation. According to data from the French government, coffee production is linked to high deforestation rates, with the EU being responsible for 44% of coffee-related deforestation globally. This new law aims to address the environmental concerns associated with coffee production and ensure sustainable practices are followed throughout the supply chain.
As a result, the coffee industry in the EU may see significant changes in the coming years, with a greater emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly production methods. This shift towards sustainability could lead to improvements in the overall environmental impact of coffee production, benefiting both the industry and the environment. By adopting more sustainable practices, the EU can reduce its contribution to deforestation and promote the conservation of natural resources for future generations.
In conclusion, the EU’s coffee industry is a significant player in both production and importation, with Italy leading the way in production and Germany dominating imports. However, the industry faces challenges related to environmental concerns, particularly deforestation caused by coffee production. The new EU law set to be implemented in 2025 aims to address these issues by requiring coffee makers to prove their sustainability practices. This shift towards environmentally friendly production methods could lead to positive changes in the industry as a whole, promoting sustainability and conservation efforts. It is crucial for stakeholders in the coffee industry to embrace these changes and work towards a more sustainable future for coffee production in the EU.
