Dubai – Ali Alzakary and Tewodros Balcha
Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, is once again taking the spotlight at the World of Coffee exhibition in Dubai, showcasing its unparalleled quality and diversity. With more than 10,000 coffee varieties, including rare wild coffee grown naturally in Ethiopia’s highlands, the country continues to set global standards for premium coffee.
From Dubai, Gizat Worku Kebede, Executive Director of the Ethiopian Coffee Association and Ethiopia’s chapter head in the African Coffee Association, highlighted the excellent current harvest and rising production levels, along with rapid expansion into markets in the Middle East and Far East. He emphasized Ethiopia’s mission to connect smallholder farmers with international buyers, support sustainability, and strengthen African coffee’s presence globally.
- What is your mission and objective in participating in the World of Coffee Dubai exhibition?
Our mission in Dubai is to promote Ethiopian coffee to international markets, focusing on the Middle East and Far East. We aim to reach coffee lovers and buyers because Ethiopian coffee is naturally organic and unique. Ethiopia is the only country producing wild coffee—coffee that grows naturally in forests, cared for by no one, and harvested once a year by local farmers. With more than 10,000 coffee varieties, Ethiopia truly is the birthplace of coffee.
- Could you share the latest updates on the current harvest season in Ethiopia?
We are here to showcase this year’s harvest, which is excellent. Total production has increased by around 1.2 million tons, and the new crop is already being exported. It’s a very positive year for Ethiopian coffee farmers and exporters.
- Which markets are you currently targeting?
“The Middle East is a fast-growing market, particularly Saudi Arabia, which is Ethiopia’s largest coffee buyer. Dubai is also a key trade hub. We are expanding into emerging Far Eastern markets, including China, South Korea, and Japan, which have shown increasing interest in high-quality Ethiopian coffee.”
- Can you tell us about the African Coffee Association and its role in supporting and developing the coffee sector?
“The African Coffee Association is the largest coffee association in Africa, representing East and Southern African countries. We also work with the African Coffee Union and the Coffee Development Agency to support West African nations. Together, we are preparing the largest coffee exhibition in Africa, scheduled in Addis Ababa from February 4–6, to promote African coffee both as a product and as a growing consumer market. Countries such as Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria are consuming more coffee, and we encourage local consumption alongside exports.”
- How do you support the coffee industry in Ethiopia?
Three years ago, we launched African Coffee Week in collaboration with the African Coffee Association, the African Coffee Union, and the Coffee Development Agency, dedicating a week entirely to celebrating coffee in Africa. At the same time, we run the Harvest Season competition for coffee quality, where winning farmers gain recognition and promotion for their coffee. These initiatives provide significant opportunities for African farmers, support sustainability, and help small-scale producers connect with coffee consumers worldwide.
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- Key Quotes:
“Ethiopia is the only country producing wild coffee—coffee that grows naturally in forests and is harvested once a year by local farmers.”
“This year’s harvest is excellent, with total production increasing by around 1.2 million tons.”
“African Coffee Week and the Harvest Season competition give farmers recognition, support sustainability, and connect them with global coffee consumers.”
- Conclusion:
Ethiopia continues to solidify its position as a global coffee powerhouse. Through initiatives such as African Coffee Week, the Harvest Season competition, and participation in international exhibitions like World of Coffee Dubai, Ethiopia not only showcases its premium coffee but also empowers smallholder farmers, promotes sustainability, and strengthens Africa’s presence in global markets. With its rich heritage, unique coffee varieties, and ongoing international expansion, Ethiopia remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence in the coffee world.
