What Is the International Coffee Agreement 2022, and What Has Changed?

In response to the growing challenges facing the global coffee sector—ranging from price volatility and climate change to farmer poverty and supply chain disruptions—the International Coffee Agreement (ICA) 2022 was introduced as a modernized global framework for cooperation. Adopted by the International Coffee Council under the International Coffee Organization (ICO), the ICA 2022 marks a significant evolution from previous agreements, laying the foundation for a new era of inclusive, sustainable, and equitable governance in the coffee industry.

What Is the International Coffee Agreement 2022?

The ICA 2022 is a multilateral treaty signed between ICO member countries. It aims to strengthen international cooperation in the production, trade, and consumption of coffee, support producer livelihoods, promote environmental sustainability, and improve market transparency. The agreement was opened for signature in October 2022, with the ratification window extending until July 2023. It entered into force once the minimum required number of exporting and importing countries completed their ratification procedures.

What Has Changed in This Agreement?

Compared to its predecessors, the ICA 2022 introduces several key innovations:

1. Official Inclusion of the Private Sector
   For the first time, private companies—including traders, roasters, retailers, and NGOs—can formally participate as observers and contributors in working groups and policy discussions.

2. More Inclusive Governance
   Decision-making is no longer limited to governments. The agreement creates mechanisms that engage a broader spectrum of stakeholders throughout the coffee value chain, increasing transparency and responsiveness.

3. Stronger Focus on Sustainability and Climate Resilience
   ICA 2022 prioritizes environmental protection, sustainable farming practices, and climate adaptation, especially for smallholder producers in vulnerable regions.

4. Encouragement of Value Addition at Origin
   The agreement supports the development of domestic processing (e.g., roasting and packaging) in producing countries to enhance local economies and increase producer income.

5. Enhanced Data Systems and Transparency
   The ICO will strengthen its data collection, market analysis, and reporting frameworks to inform evidence-based policymaking and early warning systems.

6. Flexible and Fair Contribution Structure
   The financial contribution model has been revised to make participation more accessible, especially for developing countries, while ensuring the financial sustainability of the ICO.

Who Are the Members?

More than 40 coffee-producing countries have signed or ratified the ICA 2022, including Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Ethiopia, Honduras, Indonesia, and Yemen. Key importing members include the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Norway.
This diverse membership reflects a broad global commitment to reshaping the future of coffee through cooperative engagement.

What Does It Mean for a Country to Be a Member?

Joining the ICA 2022 brings with it a set of tangible benefits and responsibilities for any country—whether it is a coffee producer or consumer:

Benefits of Membership

• Influence in Global Coffee Policy
  Member states participate in the International Coffee Council, the decision-making body of the ICO, where they help shape global trade policies, sustainability priorities, and development initiatives.

• Access to Market Intelligence and Data
  Members gain full access to ICO’s data systems and market reports, which provide critical insights into global coffee trends, pricing, production, and consumption patterns.

• Technical and Development Support
  Members can benefit from ICO-led or ICO-supported projects focused on farmer training, climate resilience, access to finance, digital tools, and sustainable farming practices.

• Promotion of Sustainable and Fair Trade
  The agreement helps position member countries as responsible participants in the global market—especially important under emerging international regulations like deforestation laws or due diligence standards.

• Opportunities for Regional and Global Collaboration
  Membership facilitates partnerships with other countries, NGOs, and private sector actors for research, market development, and cross-border initiatives.

• Support for Smallholder Livelihoods
  ICA 2022 seeks to ensure fair income for coffee farmers through transparency, better pricing systems, and global campaigns focused on living income benchmarks.

Responsibilities of Membership

• Annual Financial Contribution
  Based on the country’s status (producer or importer) and its coffee trade volume.

• Data Reporting and Transparency
  Members are expected to provide accurate and timely information on production, trade flows, and domestic coffee policies.

• Active Participation
  Member countries are encouraged to engage in ICO meetings, working groups, and to adopt the policy recommendations adopted under the agreement.

Why Is This Agreement Considered Strategic?

For the first time, the ICO has moved beyond a purely intergovernmental dialogue to create a global platform that includes all relevant voices: farmers, cooperatives, government agencies, NGOs, and private companies.
It addresses the root causes of crises in the coffee sector—not just their symptoms—by focusing on systemic reforms, equitable economics, and climate action.

By aligning with today’s sustainability goals and governance standards, the ICA 2022 positions itself as a vital tool for ensuring that the future of coffee is not only profitable but also just, inclusive, and resilient.