The document emphasizes the "cultural, social, and historical significance of coffee," from its origins to its role in modern society, where it has become not only a major agricultural commodity and source of income for many but also a symbol of social interaction and cultural traditions.
"Coffee is more than just a beverage"
The resolution also highlights the contribution of the coffee industry to achieving sustainable development goals, such as:- combating hunger (SDG 2);
- reducing extreme poverty (SDG 1);
- empowering women (SDG 5);
- promoting decent work and economic growth (SDG 8).
Coffee and Peace in Colombia
The resolution was brought to the General Assembly for discussion after being approved at the 44th session of the FAO Conference in 2025. According to the document, the FAO will promote the celebration of International Coffee Day in collaboration with other organizations, including the International Coffee Organization.The Global Significance of Coffee
"Coffee is one of the most popular beverages on Earth: over the past ten years, its consumption has increased by an average of 1.2% per year. This industry provides income for about 25 million farmers and creates jobs at all stages of the value chain. Overall, the global coffee market generates over $200 billion annually," the statement noted.Coffee also remains one of the most actively traded commodities in the world. According to data for 2024, global production reached over 11 million tons, of which approximately 8 million tons were sold on international markets. The estimated value of global coffee production this year was nearly $25 billion, while coffee bean exports reached $34 billion.
In 2024, coffee accounted for 27.9% of Ethiopia's total commodity exports, 20.1% of Uganda's, and 19.5% of Burundi's. In Ethiopia and Uganda, coffee export revenues exceeded food import expenses, while in Burundi, they accounted for nearly 20% of the value of imported food products.
The most significant coffee exporters in 2024 were Brazil and Vietnam, while the largest importers were the European Union and the United States.
Support for the Coffee Sector
The FAO actively assists countries and local communities involved in coffee production to adapt to climate change. The organization supports pest control and the preservation of traditional coffee systems in Panama, as well as the development of climate-resilient coffee varieties in East Africa and the strengthening of cooperative models in Cuba.Moreover, the global coffee market demands increasing transparency and adherence to new sustainability standards. The FAO collaborates with producers and governments in countries such as Honduras, Guatemala, and Uganda to create reliable tracking systems and align national policies with international standards, as well as to attract investments in smallholder farms.
The organization also promotes long-term improvements in farmers' livelihoods. In projects implemented in Brazil, Costa Rica, and Honduras in partnership with the World Bank, production efficiency and farm incomes are being enhanced. In El Salvador, the FAO supported the development of a comprehensive national plan for the coffee sector.
The FAO will continue to work with member states and partners to ensure that International Coffee Day becomes a platform for joint action and knowledge sharing.
Photo on the homepage is illustrative: news.un.org (UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund for Sustaining Peace in Colombia).
