Brazilian coffee industry and specialty market trends

Brazil’s coffee sector continues to demonstrate strength in both specialty rankings and domestic market trends. In the ‘The South America’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2026’ ranking, Brazil secured 12 positions, with Lucca Cafés Especiais from Curitiba ranking fourth in South America.

On the industrial side, while the price of ground coffee has decreased due to improved global supply and increased production, there is a notable shift toward premium segments. Sales of premium coffees rose 8.1% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2022. Domestic consumption remains high, with the Brazilian Coffee Industry Association (ABIC) reporting that consumption reached 21.4 million bags in 2025.

By late 2026, Brazil has emerged as the world’s largest consumer of coffee, accounting for approximately 16% of global consumption with a household acceptance rate of 97%. While traditional and extra-strong coffees still represent 70% of sales volume at retailers like Carrefour, there is a growing trend toward convenience and premiumization. Specifically, coffee capsules have seen a 30% revenue increase driven by the popularity of domestic machines.

As International Coffee Day approaches on October 1, Brazil’s role as a global leader is underscored by its production, accounting for approximately 35% of world volume. Leading into the October 1 observance, Conab estimates that Minas Gerais alone will produce nearly 35 million bags of Arabica coffee, contributing to a national forecast of 48.2 million bags. Within the Brazilian market, new consumer preferences are emerging, including a rise in cold coffee, milk-based drinks, and sugar-free options, particularly among younger demographics. Beyond economics, coffee serves as a social ritual; ABIC research indicates that 33% of consumers visit coffee shops primarily for social interaction. The industry is also seeing technical advancements in decaffeination processes, utilizing methods such as organic solvents, water, or supercritical carbon dioxide.