VIETNAM

Vietnamese coffee has a fascinating history that dates back to the mid-19th century, when French colonists brought coffee plants to the region. Initially introduced as part of France’s colonial ambitions, coffee quickly took root in Vietnam’s fertile soil and ideal growing conditions. Today, the country is the world’s second-largest coffee producer (right behind Brazil) and dominates global Robusta production.

For most of its history, Vietnam has been synonymous with high-yield Robusta coffee (used for the mass production of instant coffee). But beyond the bulk commodity trade, Vietnam was developing its own unique coffee culture and identity, with drinks like cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk) and egg coffee earning a cult following.

Today, producers are experimenting more and more with specialty Arabica in regions like Da Lat and Son La, and testing innovative processing methods for both Arabica and Robusta. These efforts are starting to reshape perceptions, showcasing Vietnam’s potential to produce high-quality coffee that goes beyond its traditional Robusta reputation. Why not Vietnam?

MYANMAR

Myanmar’s coffee story is fascinating and unexpected. While coffee was first introduced in the late 19th century during British colonial rule, it didn’t take off until much later. For decades, Myanmar’s Shan State was known more for poppy farming and opium production than for coffee. But in the early 2000s, efforts to combat opium cultivation sparked a shift. International development programs and the government encouraged farmers to transition to coffee as a sustainable alternative crop, and the high-altitude regions like Ywangan and Pyin Oo Lwin turned out to be perfect for Arabica production.

Initially, Myanmar’s coffee was grown for local consumption, but the specialty coffee movement put the country on the global map. Producers embraced natural and honey processing, resulting in coffees with vibrant acidity, fruity sweetness, and distinct flavour profiles that stand out on the world stage.

Today, Myanmar’s coffee industry is thriving, exporting over 83,000 bags (approximately 5,000 tons) of coffee annually. And based on how tasty these cups are, this is likely just the start.