Dubai – Qahwa World
Cappuccino is the most popular coffee choice among residents of Moscow, according to economist and global economy expert Khadzhimurad Belkharoiev.
Belkharoiev noted that after cappuccino, the most consumed coffee drinks are Americano and various types of latte. Overall, Muscovites consume coffee significantly more than residents of other major Russian cities—around 50% more than in St. Petersburg. Seasonal changes also affect beverage preferences: in winter, coffee and tea consumption rises, while in summer people tend to choose mineral water and soft drinks.
The economist added that the coffee market continues to grow, fueled by changing consumer habits and even medical advice recommending moderate coffee consumption to support vascular health.
Reflecting on history, Belkharoiev pointed out that tea was the dominant drink during the Soviet era due to trade ties with India, while high-quality coffee was scarce and considered a luxury.
Today, the situation is very different. Global coffee production reaches tens of millions of tons each year, with a large share exported internationally. The worldwide market is valued in the hundreds of billions of dollars, and billions of cups of coffee are consumed annually outside the home. Since the early 2020s, global coffee prices have steadily risen, a trend that is also reflected in Russia, where consumption is gradually shifting from tea to coffee.
Belkharoiev attributes this change to generational and market factors. Younger consumers tend to choose coffee when visiting cafes and restaurants, and the coffee sector remains highly profitable. The growing availability of home coffee machines has also boosted domestic coffee consumption.
Regarding prices, retail coffee costs have increased over the past year, and cafe prices have risen as well. However, expected increases in Robusta production globally could help stabilize prices. Nevertheless, according to Belkharoiev, the era of cheap coffee is effectively over.
