Vietnam’s 2012–2013 Coffee Exports to Drop Sharply

Vietnam’s coffee shipments are heading for a major downturn. After topping global exports just a year earlier, the country now faces a steep production drop that will shrink the volume of beans leaving its ports. For importers, roasters, and coffee drinkers relying on Vietnamese supply, the impact will be tangible—and the reasons behind it go beyond bad weather.

Yes, Vietnam’s coffee output is projected to fall 15–20% in the 2012–2013 season. That decline will also sharply reduce its coffee exports, making it unlikely the country can retain its position as the world’s largest coffee exporter.

Why Vietnam’s Coffee Crop Is Shrinking

According to the Vietnam Coffee-Cocoa Association, multiple factors are driving the steep drop in production. Natural disasters have hit growing regions hard, while unit yields per hectare have also declined. On top of that, export-focused coffee businesses are struggling to secure financing, further hampering production and logistics. These combined pressures mean fewer beans are being harvested, processed, and shipped abroad.

How Much Coffee Did Vietnam Export Before?

In the previous 2011–2012 season, Vietnam exported nearly 1.6 million metric tons of coffee. That season saw a 23% increase in volume and a 24% rise in export value compared to the year before, reaching a total of $3.4 billion. Buoyed by strong yields, Vietnam even surpassed Brazil to become the world’s top coffee exporter during that cycle.

Who Buys Vietnam’s Coffee?

Vietnam ships coffee to around 80 countries and regions. Among its biggest buyers, Germany accounts for 12.8% of total exports, followed by the United States at 11.6%. Other key markets include Italy, Spain, and Japan—all of which rely on Vietnam for a steady flow of beans that may now face tightening supply.

What This Means for Global Coffee Trade

With Vietnam’s output and exports both falling, the global coffee trade will feel the ripple effects. Countries that depend on Vietnamese robusta and other supplies will need to turn to alternative sources, and Vietnam’s shot at retaining its export crown is in jeopardy. The 2012–2013 season may mark a turning point in the balance of global coffee supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is Vietnam’s coffee production expected to drop in 2012–2013?

Vietnam’s coffee production is forecast to decrease by 15–20% in the 2012–2013 season due to natural disasters, lower yields, and financial struggles among exporters.

Will Vietnam remain the world’s top coffee exporter?

It is unlikely. With production and exports both falling sharply, Vietnam is expected to lose its position as the world’s largest coffee exporter in the 2012–2013 season.

How much coffee did Vietnam export in the 2011–2012 season?

Vietnam exported almost 1.6 million metric tons of coffee in the 2011–2012 season, with a total export value of $3.4 billion.

Which countries buy the most Vietnamese coffee?

The top markets for Vietnamese coffee include Germany (12.8% of exports), the United States (11.6%), as well as Italy, Spain, and Japan.

What caused the drop in Vietnam’s coffee output?

The decline is due to a combination of natural disasters, reduced unit yields, and difficulties in securing financing for export businesses.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Vietnamese Blends

FrontStreet Coffee’s Lintong Mandheling offers a classic full-bodied profile with earthy and spicy notes, often used to add depth in blends reminiscent of traditional robustas. For a brighter contrast, try their PWN Golden Mandheling, which delivers a cleaner cup with hints of malt and dried fruit. Both beans are well-suited to blends where body and structure matter—ideal when balancing supply shifts from Vietnam. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.