How to export coffee from Colombia ?

Colombian Coffee: World-Renowned for Its Quality

Colombian coffee is known for its high quality and unique flavor, thanks to the country's ideal climate and traditional farming methods.

Whether you’re in Times Square or 8th Avenue in New York, in front of the Reichstag in Berlin, at the Trevi Fountain or the Colosseum in Rome, in the heart of Tokyo, or in Toronto or Montreal, you can enjoy a cup of Colombian coffee.
That's because the United States, Europe (especially Spain, Italy, and Germany), Japan, and Canada are the main importers of Colombian coffee.

Discover Our Blog: “Exporting Coffee from Colombia – A Step-by-Step Guide to International Success!”

Dive into the fascinating world of Colombian coffee and explore:

1. Cultivation and Harvesting

Cultivation:

• Coffee is grown on farms across Colombia, taking advantage of favorable geographical and climatic conditions.
• Variety selection depends on altitude, temperature, soil, and resistance to diseases. Common varieties: Caturra, Typica, Bourbon, Castillo.
• Land preparation includes clearing, weeding, and soil conditioning.
• Planting is done in prepared rows with adequate spacing.
• Ongoing care involves irrigation, fertilization, weed and pest control, and pruning.

Harvesting:

• Harvest is done selectively by hand, picking only ripe cherries (usually red or yellow).
• Harvesting is staggered due to uneven ripening.
• A first sorting of under- or overripe cherries is done in the field.

2. Processing and Post-Harvest

After harvest, the coffee fruit undergoes processing to separate the beans from the pulp and outer layers. There are two main methods:

Washed Process (Wet Method):

• Depulping: Removes fruit skin with machinery.
• Fermentation: Soaks beans to remove mucilage and develop flavor.
• Washing: Rinses off residues.
• Drying: Reduces moisture before storage or export (sun-dried or mechanical dryers).

Natural Process (Dry Method):

• Sun drying: Whole cherries dried on patios or raised beds.
• Hulling: Removes dry husks to extract beans.
• Grading and selection: Beans are sorted by size and defects.

3. Storage and Transport Logistics

Storage:

• After drying, beans are stored under optimal temperature, humidity, and ventilation.
• Packaging in jute sacks protects from moisture and contamination.
• Periodic quality checks ensure beans remain in optimal condition.

Transport:

• Exported via sea, air, or land, depending on destination.
• Beans are loaded into containers and properly secured.
• Includes all necessary documentation and customs procedures.
• Real-time tracking ensures the coffee arrives safely and on time.

4. Export Documentation and Customs Procedures

Required Documents:

• Commercial invoice
• Certificate of origin (via SICO system)
• Phytosanitary certificate
• Transport documents (Bill of Lading, Air Waybill, etc.)
• Other possible certifications: organic, fair trade, quality seals.

Customs Procedures:

• Exporter must register with Colombian customs authorities.
• Export declaration with detailed product info.
• Inspection may be physical or documentary.
• Tariffs and taxes may apply based on destination country agreements.
• Additional permits or authorizations may be required.

5. International Markets

Identifying Key Markets:

• Top importers of Colombian coffee: USA, Germany, Japan, Italy, Canada.
• Use market research to analyze demand, consumption trends, competition, and regulatory requirements.

Market Research Factors:

• Consumer preferences: type, flavor, aroma, packaging trends.
• Legal requirements: certifications, labeling, import laws.
• Distribution channels: importers, distributors, retailers, e-commerce.

Establishing Business Contacts:

• Attend trade fairs and coffee expos.
• Connect through industry associations and online platforms.
• Visit target markets to build direct relationships and understand client needs.

Don’t Miss the Opportunity!

Become an expert in Colombian coffee exports and make your international business dream a reality!