China Green Coffee

Coffee’s journey in China began in the late 19th century when French settlers introduced it to the Yunnan province. However, for much of the 20th century, coffee struggled to gain traction as a major crop. That all changed in the 1980s when the Chinese government stepped in to support the industry, backed by large companies. This shift sparked a rapid rise in production, and today, China has become a significant player in the global coffee market, ranking first for coffee yield per unit area.
Today, most of China’s coffee is grown in the Yunnan region, with arabica being the dominant variety. Chinese coffee is known for its unique flavour, balancing nutty and fruity notes with a smooth medium acidity. Expect tasting notes of peanuts, cream, chocolate, and subtle fruit, making it a complex yet approachable cup.

In China, coffee is predominantly grown in the Yunnan province, which accounts for around 95% of the country’s coffee production. Located in the far southwest of China, Yunnan enjoys a unique climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it a perfect environment for coffee cultivation. The region’s high altitudes, ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 metres above sea level, allow the beans to ripen slowly, developing a complex and rich flavour profile.
Yunnan is home to over 30 different coffee varietals, but Catimor is the most commonly grown due to its resistance to both leaf rust and adverse weather conditions, as well as its high yield. The combination of the region’s unique climate, soil, and elevation contributes to a flavour profile that is distinctive to Chinese coffee: medium acidity, a full body, and flavours often reminiscent of nuts, chocolate, and occasionally tropical fruits. Some coffee enthusiasts even compare Yunnan coffee to washed South American varieties, with its clean taste and balanced, vibrant notes.

We source our coffee from farmers in China through our trusted partner, IndoChina Coffee, a company founded with the mission of promoting high-quality coffees from across Asia. Since 2015, IndoChina has been committed to developing long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with coffee producers, particularly in regions like Yunnan. By working closely with farmers, they ensure that the communities involved receive fair compensation for their hard work, while also fostering sustainable farming practices. IndoChina’s founders, Christian and Shirani, regularly visit farms and processing facilities during the harvest season, building personal connections with the producers and fully understanding the context in which they operate.
Through this partnership, we can bring you exceptional coffee from China, while supporting responsible trade and improving the lives of farmers and their families. IndoChina’s approach ensures that we source coffee in a way that benefits both the growers and the wider community, aligning with our commitment to offering ethically sourced, high-quality coffee that truly makes a difference.