Farmers in Brazil are struggling with severe drought and wildfires that threaten coffee production. This situation is impacting not only the quality and quantity of coffee beans but also the livelihoods of many small-scale producers. The country, which is the largest coffee producer globally, is experiencing its worst drought in over 70 years. Farmers like Silvio Almeida are seeing their expected harvests drop significantly. The drought has already affected the upcoming 2025 crop, with many plants failing to bloom.
• The current coffee harvest is flat compared to last year, with exports rising.
• Global coffee prices are increasing due to potential supply shortages from Brazil and Vietnam.
• Wildfires have destroyed large areas of coffee plantations, compounding the drought's effects.
• Prices for arabica coffee are at a 13-year high, driven by demand and adverse weather conditions.
This crisis matters because it highlights the vulnerability of coffee production to climate change. As prices rise, consumers may face higher costs, and small farmers risk losing their livelihoods. The situation calls for urgent attention to sustainable farming practices and climate resilience strategies to protect this vital industry.
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