Approximately 2.5 billion cups of coffee are consumed daily. In 2024, the world produced 10.5 million tons of coffee beans, a 4% increase compared to 2023.
As a result of the record high prices, the global coffee market will likely reach USD 132 billion in 2024. Over the past decade, coffee exports by air increased by 7.3 percentage points, making up nearly 14.7% of total roasted coffee exports in 2024.
The world’s five largest coffee producers—Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Indonesia, and Ethiopia—account for over 70% of global coffee production.
Traditionally, 95% of the green coffee beans produced by these countries are shipped in bulk by sea. The remaining 5% is transported by air, exclusively for specialty coffees. Air cargo allows high-value beans to reach their destination much faster, ensuring optimal freshness before retail distribution.
Despite not producing coffee, Switzerland has established itself as the leading exporter of roasted coffee by air. The country’s share of coffee exported by air rose by an impressive 37.6 percentage points, reaching 65.7% in 2024 from 2014. Aside from exporting, the country’s ability to generate added value is notable, and its share of total coffee export value tripled over the same period, accounting for 82.4% of the global total.
Colombia, the third-largest producer and the second-largest exporter by air, increased its share by 4.5 percentage points over the past decade. However, its export value grew by only one percentage point. Italy and the Netherlands have seen a decline in influence, with their share of coffee exports by air dropping by 6.6 and 4.5 percentage points, respectively.
As global coffee demand rises, air cargo becomes an indispensable part of the supply chain, enabling producers and exporters to deliver fresher, higher-quality coffee at premium prices. It is no longer just a logistical choice but a strategic advantage. With speed, reliability, and quality reservation at its core, air freight is shaping the future of the coffee trade, ensuring that coffee lovers worldwide get the freshest brews possible.
