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Yunnan, a province in southwest China, is strengthening its position on the global coffee map. At the inaugural Gems of Yunnan Green Coffee Competition held in Baoshan in 2025, 19 coffee samples scored above 87 points out of 100, confirming their compliance with international quality standards.

The competition, part of the pilot Cup of Excellence (CoE) program, was held in China for the first time. At the auction concluding the contest, a batch of coffee beans from Lincang sold for a record 13,000 yuan (approximately $1,813) per kilogram — the highest price ever achieved by Chinese coffee.

The contest followed CoE rules, one of the most respected coffee evaluation systems worldwide, founded in Brazil in 1999. Each sample underwent comprehensive testing, including roasting, brewing, and professional “cupping” tasting. An international panel of experts evaluated the samples based on flavor clarity, acidity, sweetness, mouthfeel, and aromatic complexity.

Yunnan produces 98% of China’s coffee output. The region benefits from favorable natural conditions — mountainous climate, significant temperature variations, and distinct wet and dry seasons. According to organizers, the share of specialty-grade coffee in the region rose from 40% in 2022 to 70% in 2024, while deep processing rates reached 85%.

Coffee culture in China is rapidly growing as well. Industry data show that Shanghai has surpassed New York and London in the number of coffee shops. Among younger generations, coffee consumption has become part of urban identity and lifestyle.

Organizers stated that Yunnan plans to further strengthen its position in the global market through improvements in agricultural technologies, expansion of export channels, brand development, and innovation in supply chains.

ORIENT

Photo: Liang Zhiqiang/People's Daily Online