America
The only area of North America to grow coffee beans is Mexico and it’s only the central and southern areas of Mexico that are found within the Coffee Belt. In Central America, Guatemala has volcanic soil and this helps to produce flavourful beans. Costa Rica, although a small producer, has gained a great reputation for quality coffee, as most of the coffee is grown in small farms. In South America, Peru and, of course, Brazil, are responsible for producing some amazing tasting beans.
Africa
It is believed that Ethiopia is the country of origin for the coffee bean. As such, Ethiopia was the first coffee growing region in Africa (and likely, the world). Ethiopia accounts for around 3 percent of the global coffee market. Neighbouring country, Kenya, is also renowned for its coffee production.
Asia
Vietnam is by far the biggest producer of coffee in Asia, and is the second largest of exporter of coffee in the world; just behind Brazil. It grows mainly Robusta beans which are higher in caffeine and more bitter in taste. Indonesia is another big player in Asia, with coffee cultivation commencing in the country during the 1600s. Producing the likes of Java and Sumatra, Indonesian coffee amounts for around 6 percent of global exports.
Where does coffee grow?
Do you ever wonder about the origins of your coffee beans? Coffee beans are grown across the world, take a look at the map and it’ll show you that those coffee producing countries are all located within the same area across the world. This area is known as the Coffee Belt.
Geographically, the Coffee Belt is the area between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, and whilst coffee bean production originated in Africa, it has since expanded both East and West, creating the Coffee Belt. With these areas being so close to the equator, the climate experienced in the countries found within the Bean Belt is ideal for the growth of coffee beans.
Coffee beans have some specific requirements for their perfect growing conditions. Coffee trees thrive in moist, tropical climates that have both wet and dry seasons, with the perfect balance between rain and shaded sun. They also grow best in rich soil and at high altitudes, and many of the countries found within the Bean Belt meet all of these specifications.
Where does coffee grow?
