According to the Vietnamese Trade Office in Sweden, which also covers other Nordic countries, coffee prices in Sweden are expected to increase significantly at least twice this year, with an increase of about 1 USD to 1.5 USD per package.
The main reason is the extreme weather in Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer, which has significantly reduced the yield of Arabica beans, the preferred type of coffee in the Nordic countries.
It is forecasted that global green coffee prices, which have doubled over the past two years, will continue to rise, putting significant pressure on retail prices.
Although the Nordic market primarily consumes Arabica, the high prices are prompting consumers and importers to seek alternative options.
This presents a major opportunity for Vietnam, the world's second-largest coffee producer, to boost exports of Robusta beans, known for its low cost, good weather resistance, and suitability for instant coffee production.
Vietnam has a great advantage with its abundant supply of Robusta, competitive costs, and improving quality.
However, to effectively capitalise on this opportunity, a well-planned strategy and bold steps are needed.
According to the Vietnamese Trade Office in Sweden, Vietnamese businesses should focus on promoting Robusta as a reasonable alternative, especially as demand shifts towards more cost-effective products.
The rise in Arabica prices opens up opportunities for Vietnamese Robusta to penetrate the Swedish market more deeply.
Vietnamese businesses are advised to participate in international fairs and exhibitions and collaborate with importers to promote their products.
North European consumers tend to prioritise quality and sustainability.
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The rise in Arabica prices opens up opportunities for Vietnamese Robusta to penetrate the Swedish market more deeply. (Photo: Vietnam Pictorial) |
Therefore, businesses should invest in high-quality Robusta varieties that reduce bitterness, enhance aroma, and adopt environmentally friendly farming practices.
Certifications such as Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, or UTZ will help elevate Vietnamese coffee products and attract discerning consumers in Northern Europe.
Additionally, developing blended coffee lines, especially those combining Arabica and Robusta beans, is a way to cater to the Nordic preference with a balanced and consistent flavour.
In 2024, Vietnamese enterprises exported nearly 1.35 million tonnes of coffee, generating a record-breaking 5.62 billion USD in revenue.
In the first two months of this year, the Vietnamese coffee industry made a distinct impression with export turnover rising by 26.2% year-on-year to 1.58 billion USD.
This achievement affirms Vietnam's position in the global coffee market, opening bright prospects for realising the production target of 1.98 million tonnes and export turnover of 6 billion USD for 2025.
