The Colombian coffee industry witnessed significant growth in 2024, with unroasted coffee exports to the United States increasing by 8%, reaching a total value of $1.4 billion. This surge was largely driven by rising coffee prices and a slight recovery in global coffee demand, according to a new report by the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS).
Colombia continues to hold its position as the second-largest supplier of unroasted coffee to the U.S., following Brazil. Coffee, along with cut flowers, accounted for nearly 65% of total Colombian agricultural exports to the United States. The report also highlighted that roasted and instant coffee exports from Colombia to the U.S. declined by 22%, amounting to $186 million.
Despite fluctuations in global coffee markets, the United States remains Colombia’s top export destination for coffee, consuming 40% of the country’s total agricultural exports. The European Union ranked second, with 25%, while Latin American countries accounted for 16%.
Beyond coffee, other major Colombian agricultural exports to the U.S. included fresh bananas ($286 million, up 9%), processed fruit and vegetables ($139 million, down 1%), and fresh avocados ($91 million, up 221%), positioning Colombia as the third-largest supplier of fresh avocados to the U.S. market.
While coffee remains Colombia’s flagship export, the industry faces ongoing challenges, including climate-related risks, supply chain disruptions, and price volatility. However, rising global demand for specialty and sustainably sourced coffee presents new opportunities for Colombian farmers to enhance their market presence.
With coffee prices rebounding and consumer preferences shifting toward higher-quality and ethically sourced beans, experts predict continued strength in Colombia’s coffee exports in the coming years. The latest data underscores the vital role Colombian coffee plays in the global coffee trade, solidifying its position as a key supplier to the world’s largest coffee-consuming nation.