Why Vietnam’s coffee beans might outlast others

Vietnam’s coffee industry, a global powerhouse for robusta production, faces significant pressure from climate change and evolving international regulations. While robusta remains more heat-resilient than arabica, erratic weather patterns threaten long-term yields, forcing roasters to increase robusta content in global blends. The sector grapples with an aging workforce and the lack of formal social protections for millions of informal laborers. Furthermore, the European Union’s upcoming deforestation regulations necessitate improved traceability, a complex challenge for small-scale farmers. Despite these hurdles, a new generation of growers is actively experimenting with high-quality hybrids and strengthening market connections to ensure the industry's sustainability. Sustainability expert Thuan Sarzynski highlights that while the agricultural landscape is shifting, these adaptations are critical for maintaining Vietnam's position as a dominant global coffee exporter amidst a warming climate.