There’s a Lot in That Cup: Why Coffee Prices Are Rising
Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a daily ritual for many. But the price of coffee has spiked recently, reaching its highest point since 1977. While this may seem surprising, the reasons behind the price rise are complex and tied to various factors in the coffee industry.
Why Are Coffee Prices Rising?
Several key issues are driving the increase in coffee prices:
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Climate Change: Coffee is grown in specific climates that are increasingly affected by rising temperatures and extreme weather, reducing yields.
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Tariff Threats: International trade policies and tariffs can raise prices by disrupting supply chains and increasing import/export costs.
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Deforestation Legislation: New EU laws to combat deforestation could add costs to coffee production in certain regions.
These pressures reflect the natural fluctuations in coffee prices, but what many don’t realize is that each step of the coffee’s journey—from seed to cup—requires time, resources, and money.
The Journey of a Coffee Bean
From the moment a coffee seed is planted, it can take over five years to reach your cup. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
- Growing: Coffee thrives in specific climates, and climate change is reducing suitable land.
- Harvesting: Coffee cherries are handpicked, a labor-intensive process, especially with unpredictable weather.
- Processing: The beans are extracted and processed, which requires skilled labor and equipment.
- Shipping and Roasting: Shipping costs fluctuate due to fuel prices, and roasting beans requires energy and expertise.
- Barista Expertise: The final step—brewing the perfect cup—also involves skilled labor that’s becoming more expensive as costs rise.
Fair Pricing for All
As costs rise at every stage, it’s important to understand that fair compensation is needed for all those involved in the coffee supply chain. Farmers, roasters, and baristas all deserve to be paid fairly for their work.
The price increase you’re seeing at your local café or store reflects the true costs of bringing coffee to you. By respecting these costs, you’re supporting a sustainable and fair coffee industry for everyone involved.
Supporting the Coffee Community
For the coffee community in Aotearoa New Zealand, rising prices are a call for solidarity. As consumers, respecting the true cost of your cup ensures that everyone in the supply chain is fairly compensated, from the farmer to the barista. The next time you sip your coffee, remember the journey it took to get to you—and the people behind it.
Respect the cost of the cup.