10 tips on how to do business with European coffee buyers

The European coffee sector holds countless opportunities for SMEs looking to export to the continent. But with so much competition in the market, it is important to cultivate great business relationships in order to thrive. To do this successfully, you need to understand the ways and wants of European buyers. Use the tips below as guidelines on how to do business with European buyers. If you are already doing business in Europe, these tips can help improve your relationship with your buyers. If you are new to the market in Europe, these tips will prepare you for your first ventures.

1. Understand the business culture in the European coffee sector

The overall business culture in the European coffee sector tends to be formal. Proper etiquette, punctuality, and professionalism are expected. Take time to build personal connections but keep initial interactions respectful and follow established norms. Be aware of notable cultural differences between countries (see Table 1). Strong relationships and trust are crucial, even within a formalised framework. While formal, the industry is not rigid. Personal relationships and trust play significant roles. Table 1 presents differences in the business culture of some European countries. Passport to Trade 2.0 also provides a good overview of differences in business cultures in Europe. An example is that North European buyers are often straightforward and will tell you what they think, whereas Southern European buyers tend to be less direct.

Table 1: Some differences in the business culture of a few European countries to note

Source: Passport to trade 2.0

Be familiar with common coffee industry terms

Familiarise yourself with industry-specific terms and jargon used across the European coffee sector regarding quality, sourcing, processing methods, certifications, and logistics. A shared vocabulary facilitates clear communication. The coffee sector uses specific terms and language that are essential for anyone doing business within the industry to understand. This language includes terms like "cupping" (a method for evaluating coffee quality), "direct trade" (a sourcing practice emphasising direct relationships between buyers and farmers), and "single origin" (coffee sourced from one specific location). Familiarity with this terminology is crucial for effective communication and establishing credibility. Exporters should recognise the importance of this industry-specific language and can learn more through resources such as industry publications, training programmes, and participation in professional coffee associations and trade shows. Understanding and using the correct terminology will facilitate smoother interactions and help build stronger business relationships.

Table 2: Common terminologies in the coffee sector

Other terms used in logistics and shipping include: 

• FOB (Free on Board): This term means that the seller is responsible for the products until they are placed aboard the vessel for shipment. After that, the buyer takes responsibility.
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): CIF is a pricing model that includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight charges up to the final port. These charges are the seller's responsibility until the items arrive at the destination port.
• Certificates of provenance: These certificates certify the provenance of the goods, namely green coffee. They may be required for tariff rates and guarantee adherence to trade agreements by customs authorities.
• Phytosanitary Certificate: This document certifies that the exported green coffee meets the phytosanitary standards of the nation of import by being free of pests and diseases.
• The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) publishes Incoterms, which are standardised words used in international trade. EXW (Ex Works), FCA (Free Carrier), and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) are also examples of frequently used Incoterms that outline the obligations of the buyer and seller in a transaction.

The language and terminology can vary based on the specific European country, company, or an individual's background. But in general, coffee traders and processors use this specialised vocabulary to efficiently communicate about bean quality, sourcing, and logistics. Also, certain acronyms like ICO (International Coffee Organization), and HACCP (Food Safety Certification) may be used.

Be cautious about giving gifts

Gift-giving practices in business relationships can vary significantly across cultures, and it's essential to approach this aspect with caution when engaging with European buyers, particularly during the initial stages of establishing a professional relationship.

Once a solid business relationship has been developed and a foundation of trust has been built, small regional gifts or items representative of your company's origin or culture can be appropriate gestures to strengthen ties and show appreciation. These gifts should be modest in value and presented in a professional manner, without any expectation of reciprocation or favouritism.

When presenting any gift, it's essential to provide context and explain the cultural significance or regional connection behind the item. This adds value and meaning to the gesture, showcasing your appreciation for the business relationship and your desire to share a piece of your origin with your European partners.

2. Be professional in communicating with buyers

Coffee is fundamentally a people and relationships business, where knowing your clients and buyers is the key to success. Building strong, trust-based relationships is essential, as it fosters loyalty and repeat business. To maintain these relationships, effective communication is crucial. Initial contacts are best made through clear, concise emails, followed by teleconferences or video calls for more detailed discussions. Face-to-face meetings are invaluable for deepening connections and understanding your client’s needs. Regular check-ins, sharing industry insights, and personalised touches like sending coffee samples can also help strengthen these bonds and ensure long-term partnerships.

When approaching a potential European coffee buyer or partner for the first time, it's essential to adopt a formal and professional communication style. Initial interactions should be respectful and follow established business norms. There can be several layers of contact.

Ideally, the first contact with a buyer is in person. Such as meeting in the place of origin, or at a trade show like the  World of Coffee (WoC), Specialty Coffee Expo (SCE), or the African Fine Coffees Association (AFCA) conference. These settings provide a great opportunity to establish a strong initial connection, discuss products in detail, and demonstrate commitment to quality and partnership.

Otherwise, you can also start with an introductory email: start your outreach with proper due diligence; know what a buyer is looking for. Are they looking for specialty coffees and single origin, or working more in the conventional markets? Knowing your customer is the starting point of any conversation. In the email, introduce yourself, your company, and your coffee range, such as varieties, certifications (e.g., Fairtrade, Organic, Rainforest Alliance), and production and processing capabilities. Describe how your products create value for the buyer considering what they are looking for. Highlight your unique selling points such as exceptional quality, distinct flavour profiles, or sustainable production practices.

After providing the initial introduction, politely request an introductory call or video meeting to discuss potential partnerships in more detail. An initial call or meeting should focus on understanding your client. In this meeting, explore how you can be of service to your potential client. Also, propose attending major coffee events, such as  World of Coffee or HOST Milan, where you can arrange in-person meetings with European buyers. Be prepared to discuss your company's capabilities, quality control measures, certifications, and commitment to sustainability and compliance.

You can phrase your request as follows:

"I would be delighted to arrange an introductory call or video meeting to discuss a potential partnership and answer any questions you may have about our coffee range. Additionally, we plan to attend [Event Name, e.g., World of Coffee or HOST Milan] in [Location] on [Date] where I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person, share our coffee samples and explore how we can collaborate to meet your specific needs."

One important thing to also note is that direct coffee trade is becoming a growing trend in Europe, particularly in the specialty segment. This means building a personal relationship with buyers can enhance direct trade of your coffee. You can invite potential buyers for a visit to your producing region, offering them samples of micro lots. In building this relationship, demonstrate knowledge and control of your value chain, and answer emails and phone calls promptly.

At all meetings, maintain a professional yet warm tone in all communications. Promptly respond to inquiries and requests from potential buyers. Consistently emphasise your commitment to quality, sustainability, and compliance with relevant European standards and regulations. This approach demonstrates reliability and builds trust, which is crucial for establishing long-term partnerships in the European coffee market.

Avoid common misconceptions that hinder exporters within the coffee sector

European coffee buyers pay attention to your values and adherence to quality, sustainability and business regulations in your own country. See our tips on Going Green, Social Responsibility and Buyer Requirements in the coffee sector to learn more about how to meet the demand for these values. It is important to know this and comply with mandatory requirements including the regulation on deforestation-free products (EUDR), the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) and food safety requirements for your coffee export business. We provide more information about these in the tip on complying with mandatory sustainability and traceability requirements. However, many exporters have some misconceptions that can hinder their coffee export business.

Here are some common misconceptions you should avoid to give you a competitive edge:

1. Assuming price is the primary factor. Price is not the primary factor driving purchasing decisions, especially in the premium and specialty coffee segments. European buyers are willing to pay a premium for coffees that meet their stringent quality standards, showcase unique flavour profiles, and align with their sustainability and ethical sourcing principles. While price is still a consideration, it is often secondary to quality with regards to supplying specialty coffee. Sustainability and the overall value proposition offered by the supplier is also very important.

2. Underestimating documentation requirements. Suppliers expect proper documentation of your business certificates and on sourcing, quality control measures, certifications, and compliance with labour and environmental standards in your own country. Verbal claims or assurances do not suffice. European buyers require detailed product specifications, certifications (e.g., Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, Organic), traceability records, and documentation demonstrating compliance with relevant regulations and standards. Transparent and well-documented supply chains are highly valued.

3. Expecting quick results. Building trust and demonstrating reliability through consistent performance over an extended period is crucial for establishing successful long-term partnerships in the European coffee market. Quick wins or one-off transactions are less valued than developing relationships based on consistently delivering high-quality products and services. European buyers often prioritise suppliers who have proven themselves reliable over time, as they value the stability and predictability of such partnerships.

4. Overlooking cultural differences. Failure to adapt to the formal business cultures and communication styles prevalent in European markets can hinder the development of successful partnerships. Understanding and respecting these cultural differences is crucial for building strong relationships and fostering trust with European partners.

5. Ignoring sustainability trends. Sustainability trends, such as transparency, environmental responsibility, and fair labour practices, are becoming increasingly important for European buyers and consumers alike. European buyers are actively seeking suppliers who can demonstrate their commitment to sustainable and ethical practices throughout their supply chains. Certifications, third-party audits, and comprehensive reporting on sustainability initiatives are often expected or preferred.

3. Attend coffee trade shows and conferences and be well-prepared

Conferences serve as ideal platforms for learning, networking, and professional development, offering opportunities to forge new business relationship along the way. These events can significantly boost personal and organisational growth. They provide opportunities to expand your knowledge, stay up to date on the latest trends, and find solutions to challenges. Moreover, conferences offer excellent venues to showcase your organisation, ideas, and work to others.

As the saying goes, "success is where preparation and opportunity meet." This is particularly true when aiming to connect with potential buyers interested in your coffee. Effective preparation involves thorough research and planning: define your objectives, outline what you want to achieve during the conference, identify attendees, and select sessions that align with your goals.

Just as athletes practice for competitions, you should treat the conference as your game time. Structure your attendance by creating a strategic plan. Review the conference website, examine (or request) the list of attendees, and highlight individuals you wish to meet. Research the speakers and sessions to identify presentations most relevant to your business objectives. Schedule and prepare for meetings with key stakeholders in advance. In the hustle and bustle of a conference, everyone is busy, making it challenging to catch people’s attention. However, being prepared helps you deliver your message efficiently, even with limited time or opportunities to speak with your targets. Overall, being well-prepared allows you to fully engage with the conference's content.

During sessions, do not hesitate to share your experiences or ask questions when prompted. Remember, it's always crucial to maintain a tone that is both professional and warm in all your interactions. Whether it is a virtual or in-person meeting, have the following materials prepared:

1. Representative samples of your coffee varieties, both green and properly roasted and packaged for evaluation. Include key coffee data and your contact information on the label attached.
2. Comprehensive documentation, including:

• detailed product specifications (variety, origin, processing methods, cupping scores, etc.)
• certifications (e.g., Fairtrade, Organic, Rainforest Alliance)
• traceability records and supply chain information
• compliance documentation (e.g., food safety, labour standards)

3. Promotional materials or visual aids highlighting your organisation’s capabilities, quality control measures, sustainability initiatives, and unique value propositions. Before attending the conference, ensure your promotional materials are updated and fit the objectives of your attendance. Prepare leaflets or a (digital) presentation of your organisation, including key data on your business, services and contact information. 
4. Dare to stand out: use colours, pictures, and celebrate what you stand for.

4. Provide good quality samples with the right information

In the coffee sector, the product itself is the most powerful tool of communication with any buyer. A well-prepared coffee sample serves as the business card of a cooperative or exporter, showcasing their quality, capacity, and potential. It provides tangible proof of what they can offer, helping to establish credibility and trust. By sharing samples, exporters can demonstrate their commitment to excellence and foster stronger connections with buyers, making it a crucial step in building lasting business relationships.

When providing samples, aim to provide 200-350 grams of green coffee beans as a standard sample size. However, be prepared to adjust this based on the buyer's specific needs. It is therefore important to know your potential buyer’s specific needs. Pack your samples in vacuum-sealed bags for optimal preservation. If vacuum-sealing isn't available, high-quality ziplock bags are a suitable alternative. Each sample should feature an eye-catching sticker that clearly and professionally displays crucial information:

• Company Name
• Region & Country
• Altitude (meters above sea level - The height at which the coffee was grown)
• Coffee Variety
• Processing Method (How the coffee was processed (e.g., washed, natural))
• Growing Conditions (Soil type, climate, and any other relevant factors)
• Certification (if applicable)
• Contact Details
• Availability

Ensure your sample accurately represents the overall characteristics and quality of your coffee beans. Don't just take beans from the top of storage; mix them properly to give a true representation. When potential buyers visit your farm or cooperative during harvest, you can provide a direct “Day-Lot Sample”. Day-lot samples are taken from a specific day's harvest. This method provides a detailed representation of the beans harvested on that particular day, including factors like soil type, altitude, and climate. You can improve on the outcomes of your sampling process if you maintain open communication and when you are receptive to feedback. This can help you understand buyer preferences and improve your sampling process. Also, engage in cupping sessions and other sampling activities to better understand how your coffee is evaluated. 

Figure 1: Coffee cupping

Source: Ethos Agriculture

It is important to have complete information on your product range. This will help you understand the genuine worth of your coffee, considering both its intrinsic and extrinsic qualities, to boost your negotiation skills.

Figure 2: Coffee samples

Source: Ethos Agriculture

Buyers will assess both the physical and sensory quality of the samples you send. If you cannot match any particular aspect of the sample quality, tell your buyer as soon as possible. Always be honest and transparent about your samples and the quality of your coffee supplies. If you are not, you risk losing the trust of your potential buyer.

When suppliers and buyers enter into direct trade relations, this is usually upon approval of a pre-shipment sample. Buyers tend to include the right of refusal on delivery (with the ‘replace clause’), meaning that a replacement pre-shipment sample has to be offered.

Figure 3: Pre-shipment coffee samples

Source: Nordic Approach

5. Follow-up, follow-up, follow-up

Following up is a crucial element for any business. It helps you strengthen your relationship with a (potential) buyer and may provide you with successful sales opportunities. Also, good communication and follow-up provides you with a competitive advantage, as it shows you are a reliable professional to work with.

6. Be well informed about pricing strategies and providing quotations

As a coffee exporter, it's crucial to monitor global coffee futures markets to understand price trends and market dynamics. You can find real-time and historical pricing data, charting tools, contract specifications, and other market information related to the Arabica and Robusta coffee futures markets. In addition, coffee authorities in your country typically provide information on coffee prices linked to different types and screens. See the Uganda Development Authority’s website for an example. 

Monitoring these global futures markets is crucial for coffee exporters because they serve as benchmarks for international coffee prices. They also provide insights into global supply and demand dynamics, which can influence pricing strategies and risk management decisions. This information can guide your pricing strategies and help you protect yourself against price risks through hedging. Hedging is a trading operation that allows a trader to turn a less acceptable risk into a more acceptable one. 

Equally important in price setting is understanding your production costs. This includes farm inputs, labour, processing, storage, and transportation. By calculating these costs and factoring in your desired profit margins, you can set informed prices that ensure both profitability and competitiveness in the market.

When providing quotations to European buyers, clarity and transparency are essential. Your quotations should include detailed product descriptions, specifying the coffee variety, origin, processing method, quality grade, and any certifications. Additionally, clearly outline the pricing structure. This includes any taxes, duties, or additional costs, to avoid misunderstandings.

Figure 4: Example of information to include in your quotation

Source: Amonarmah consults

In this example, the quotation provides a clear product description, pricing structure with quantity discounts, payment terms, and lead times. It also highlights the coffee's unique selling points, such as its origin, processing method, quality grade, and certifications.

The specialty coffee segment in Europe commands higher pricing and margins compared to mainstream commercial coffee ranges. This reflects the exceptional quality, unique flavour profiles, and added value that specialty coffees bring to the market. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) provides an example of the economics of the coffee supply chain to demonstrate the costs and margins of specialty coffee supply. Perfect daily grind also provides a guide in their article on how to determine your production cost. This will help you to identify your additional costs and think about the margin you want to make. This information gives you a better idea of the minimum price for which you want to sell your green coffee. Also, be ready to negotiate pricing if the interest in a trade deal is mutual.

It is important to strike a balance between commanding a premium price and remaining competitive within the specialty coffee landscape. Conducting thorough market research and analysing competitor pricing strategies is essential to ensure your pricing is aligned with the perceived value of your range while also remaining attractive to potential European buyers. Refer to the Specialty Coffee Transaction Guide to get an idea of average market prices for specialty coffee over several years. This guide shows the mean contract and pricing information based on the coffee's quality, volume and origin.

Additionally, once you are aware of market prices and margins, you can consider offering promotional discounts or introductory offers to attract new customers and establish long-term partnerships with European buyers who value quality, sustainability, and traceability. Specifically, promotional strategies could include:

• Volume discounts: offering discounted rates for larger order quantities can incentivise buyers to place more substantial initial orders and helps you establish a stronger foothold in their markets.
• Introductory pricing: Offering a temporary discounted rate for a limited time can trigger the interest of buyers and encourage them to try your coffees.

When presenting promotional offers or discounted pricing, it's crucial to clearly communicate the value proposition and the temporary nature of the offer. This transparency builds trust and reinforces the premium positioning of your specialty coffees in the long run.

7. Identify and emphasise your unique selling points

Emphasising unique selling points (USPs) that resonate with European coffee buyer preferences is crucial for standing out in a highly competitive market. You should highlight your USPs with regard to sustainability and Ethical Sourcing, Traceability and Provenance, Quality and Flavour Profile and your Innovative and Unique Range.

Below are some strategiesto help you identify and highlight these USPs:

Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

European buyers and consumers are increasingly aware of environmental and social sustainability practices. Green coffee buyers need origin stories to demonstrate how these matters are addressed. Emphasise your initiatives in areas such as:

• Environmental conservation: share your story about the efforts you have made in preserving biodiversity, implementing shade-grown practices, and minimising the use of agrochemicals.
• Ethical labour practices: demonstrate your commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, and the empowerment of smallholder farmers.
• Certifications: obtain and prominently display certifications such as Fairtrade, Organic, Rainforest Alliance, which signify adherence to stringent sustainability standards. Be aware this is not relevant to all buyers, so carefully align and explore with your buyers if these investments pay off.

Traceability and Provenance

European buyers value transparency and the ability to trace the origin of their coffee. Leverage the unique story behind your coffee by highlighting:

• Specific origin: provide details about the region, farm, or cooperative where your coffee is grown. Emphasise the unique soil and microclimates that contribute to its distinctive flavour profile.
• Cultural heritage: if your coffee production has roots in indigenous traditions or ancestral farming practices, share these stories to create an authentic connection with buyers.
• Varietal specificity: highlight any unique or rare coffee varieties you cultivate, such as heirloom or landrace varieties, which can differentiate your range.

Quality and Flavour Profile

European buyers, especially in the specialty coffee segment, prioritise quality and unique flavour profiles. Emphasise:

• Processing methods: describe your meticulous processing techniques, such as washed, natural, or honey processing, and how they contribute to the coffee's unique flavour characteristics.
• Tasting notes: Provide detailed tasting notes and flavour descriptors that showcase the complexities and nuances of your coffee. Tastify can be a great tool to visually display your coffee characteristics. 
• Awards and achievements: Highlight any awards, recognitions, or positive reviews your coffee has received from reputable organisations or industry experts.

Innovative and Unique Range

Differentiate your range by showcasing any innovative or unique aspects, such as:

• Distinctive varieties: if you grow or offer rare or exotic coffee varieties, emphasise their uniqueness and limited availability.
• Special preparations: highlight any special processing methods, such as anaerobic fermentation, barrel-aging, or experimental drying techniques, that create unique flavour profiles.
• Exclusive micro-lots: Offer exclusive micro-lots or small batches of exceptional coffee that cater to buyers seeking rare and special products.

Leverage storytelling and marketing materials (websites, brochures, videos) to bring these unique selling points to life, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with European buyers' preferences for quality, sustainability, and authenticity.

An example of a coffee cooperative that effectively uses compelling storytelling to highlight sustainability, quality, and unique heritage is the Cooperativa de Caficultores de Manizales (Coffee Growers Cooperative of Manizales) in Colombia. Another is Cooperativa Regional de Caficultores de Guaxupé (Cooxupé) from Brazil. Both cooperatives share compelling narratives rooted in four core themes. First, they both celebrate the rich heritage and tradition of coffee cultivation in their respective regions, portraying generations of dedicated farmers who pass down expertise and foster authenticity. Second, they champion sustainable farming practices, showcasing commitments to organic methods and environmental conservation efforts, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers. Third, they highlight the positive community impact of coffee production, showcasing economic opportunities and social programmes that uplift local families and communities, fostering a sense of support and connection among consumers. Finally, they accentuate the exceptional quality of their coffee beans, attributing it to the ideal growing conditions in their regions, positioning themselves as premium brands that deliver superior coffee experiences to consumers worldwide.

8. Respect your contractual agreements

The coffee market is volatile, with market conditions and prices that may vary a lot over the year. If you want to establish long-standing and reliable relationships with your buyers, it is very important to respect your contractual obligations, regardless of market changes.

Most European importers buy their coffee under the terms of a European Standard Contract for Coffee (ESCC). Note that the European Coffee Federation may revise this document. If you honour your agreements and deliver according to the terms of your contract, your buyers are more likely to turn into loyal customers.

Algrano reports that more producers have been opting for open contracts. Open contracts give both parties more flexibility. Suppliers can diversify their pool of buyers and roasters can worry less about changing consumer needs and wholesale demands.

9. Comply with mandatory sustainability and traceability requirements

In recent years, European buyers have increased their sustainability requirements. They expect you to have food quality and safety management systems in place to demonstrate your ability to control potential food safety risks. This ensures that your coffee is both safe for roasting and for human consumption. If you are unable to comply with these sustainability requirements, it will be very difficult for you to access the European coffee market. 

For example, the European Green Deal (EGD) aims to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050, impacting trade and imports by enforcing stricter sustainability standards, particularly for export companies from developing countries. One focus area is the Farm to Fork strategy.

Additionally, the EGD includes the Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, which includes measures like the EU Regulation on deforestation-free products (EUDR). EUDR also restricts import of coffee products from lands acquired forcibly from local and/or indigenous communities, or whose cultivation involves labour and human rights abuses. Importers that fail to comply with EUDR could face fines of up to 4% of their net profit in any EU member state. 

There is also a social and economic sustainability strategy; the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D), which has recently been approved by the European Council. The CS3D is compulsory for all companies in the EU, and companies outside Europe that sell products or services in EU countries. It tackles mainly the social and economic concerns of sustainability. Companies must take steps to detect and prevent any harmful impacts their business and supply chains may have on people and the environment.

It is also important to enhance traceability of your products. A traceability system is a good way of providing information about the origins of your products to all the parties in the supply chain. It offers reassurance to buyers about what they are purchasing. Digitisation plays a major role in bringing more traceability to the supply chain. One of the tools that is increasingly being used is blockchain. For an example, see how trader Trabocca's use of blockchain, implemented by Fairfood Trace, has made their coffee purchasing from Ethiopia more transparent and traceable.

Apart from traceability, buyers in both mainstream and niche segments may expect you to have certifications that show your commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Certifications also help buyers control risks in their value chain. The main certification schemes in the coffee sector are 4C, Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade and Organic. Be aware that organisations offer different types of certificates and focus on various sustainability criteria. They follow consumer trends in different market segments in specific countries.

However, the high-end specialty coffee segment is less characterised by certifications and more so by quality, direct trade relations, high transparency and traceability from source to consumers. Specialty coffee buyers aim to establish direct contact with coffee farmers. These buyers want to know all the details about coffee production and the value chain, often combined with information on the coffee-growing area. Many buyers know how costly certification can be for small producers and avoid making this demand.

10. Leverage industry support

There are several government agencies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that offer valuable support and resources to facilitate the export growth of your coffee business. They aim to support coffee exporters, cooperatives, and farmers from developing countries in successfully navigating the European market and adhering to its requirements for sustainable and ethical trade practices. Being affiliated with such organisations and entities will help you to better understand the priorities of European buyers and get access to the funding, training and resources they have available.

For instance, CBI (Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries (CBI), Netherlands) is well-known for our export coaching programmes, market intelligence, and capacity building for exporters from developing countries. We offer tailored training, coaching, and consultancy services to help businesses comply with European market requirements, improve product quality, and develop effective export strategies. Our "Export Coaching Programme for Coffee" is specifically designed to support coffee exporters in accessing the European market.

Other important agencies and NGOs are:

1. Swiss Import Promotion Programme (SIPPO), Switzerland: SIPPO focuses on promoting sustainable trade and economic development in developing countries. They offer training, coaching, and consultancy services to help businesses comply with European standards, improve production processes, and access new markets. 
2. Import Promotion Desk (IPD), Germany: The IPD is a joint initiative of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Federation of German Wholesale, Foreign Trade and Services (BGA). They offer training and coaching programmes to help businesses from developing countries meet European market requirements and access distribution channels. 
3. International Trade Centre (ITC), Switzerland: The ITC is a joint agency of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations, focusing on promoting sustainable economic development and trade in developing countries. They offer a range of services, including market analyses, trade facilitation, and capacity building. The ITC's Coffee Guide provides valuable insights into the European coffee market, including consumer trends, quality standards, and market access requirements.
4. Open Trade Gate Sweden (OTGS), Swedenofficial organisation known as Kommerskollegium: OTGS is a Swedish government agency that supports sustainable trade and economic development in developing countries. They offer training programmes, market intelligence, and networking opportunities to help businesses access the European market. 
5. Africrops! Uganda: Africrops! is an NGO that works to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Africa, including coffee producers. They offer training, technical assistance, and access to certification programmes to help farmers improve their production practices, meet international standards, and access premium markets. 
6. Solidaridad: An international NGO that works towards sustainable supply chains, including for coffee, through certification, training, and capacity building programmes.
7. Fairtrade International: A leading organisation that promotes fair trade practices and provides certification for coffee and other agricultural products.
8. Rainforest Alliance: A non-profit organisation that certifies sustainable agricultural practices, including coffee production, and provides training and support to farmers.

In conclusion, refer to CBI’s studies on Tips for Finding European Coffee Buyers and Tips for Organising Your Coffee Export to Europe. These studies provide detailed information to clearly define your product range, preferred target market, and they give you strategies to find buyers and properly export your coffee to buyers in the European market.

Amonarmah Consults carried out this study in partnership with Molgo Research, and Ethos Agriculture on behalf of CBI.

Please review our market information disclaimer.