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Despite the absence of plantations on its territory, Switzerland emerges in the coffee market as a major player, already handling more than 50% of global trade.
With roasted coffee exports exceeding USD 3.6 billion in 2023, it is now the world's second largest exporter and a strategic player in the coffee supply chain, surpassing producing nations such as Colombia and Vietnam. This success stems mainly from its ability to add value during the processing process, transforming green beans imported from producing countries such as Brazil, Colombia and Costa Rica into high-quality products for export.
Switzerland's dominant position derives from the presence of multinational coffee companies, advanced logistical infrastructure and a favourable regulatory environment. Major cities such as Geneva and Zurich are home to the headquarters of leading companies that are based there for processing and international trade.
Switzerland imports green coffee at an average cost of USD 5/kg and exports it at USD 26.8/kg, thanks to the quality of the finished product. This difference in value is due to advanced technologies and high production standards that fear no comparison with other industries. Big brands play a central role in this dynamic, dominating the global capsule market.
Switzerland exports mainly to Europe, with key markets such as Germany, France and Spain. However, in recent years, there has also been significant growth in exports to North America.
In 2024, Switzerland launched the Swiss Sustainable Coffee Platform, an initiative involving industry, NGOs and government to promote sustainable practices along the supply chain. Key objectives include combating climate change and improving the living conditions of producers in countries of origin such as Vietnam, Indonesia and Peru.
Qahwa, with its focus on quality and sustainability, is positioned as an ideal partner for European distributors and coffee shops wishing to differentiate themselves. The Swiss approach emphasises the importance of ethical and high-quality products, an area in which Qahwa excels, thanks to its strong links with certified producers and targeted supplies for the Ho.Re.Ca. market.
To learn more about sustainability in coffee, discover our article on quality coffee consumption in Europe. If you want to learn more about coffee price dynamics influenced by global markets, visit our in-depth article on the Suez Canal.
As part of the global coffee supply chain, Qahwa is committed to ensuring the sourcing of sustainable, quality coffee by working with partners across Europe. With our strategically located warehouses in Slovenia, we support companies such as those in Switzerland in obtaining high-quality beans, ready to be processed into premium products.