March 28, 2016 Coffee Futures & Yunnan Green Bean Prices

If you were tracking global or local coffee prices on March 28, 2016, you were likely watching sharp movements in the C-type coffee futures market—and wondering how those translated to what farmers in Yunnan were actually getting paid for their beans. That day brought clear numbers on both fronts.

Here’s the quick answer: On March 28, 2016, C-type coffee futures closed at 114.35 US cents per pound (about 16.522 RMB/kg), down 4.65% from the previous day. Meanwhile, Yunnan local fresh bean prices were reported at 99.82 US cents per pound (approximately 14.422 RMB/kg), according to Nestlé Yunnan.

Coffee Futures Market Snapshot: March 28, 2016

The C-type coffee futures price, as reported by the New York Futures Exchange (NYBOT), closed at 114.35 US cents per pound on March 28, 2016. That equates to roughly 16.522 RMB per kilogram. The day’s trading opened at 118 US cents per pound (17.049 RMB/kg), peaked at 118.05 US cents per pound (17.056 RMB/kg), and hit a low of 113.6 US cents per pound (16.413 RMB/kg). Compared to the prior day, the market closed down by 4.65%.

These figures represent the standardized pricing benchmark used globally to trade arabica coffee, specifically the Coffea arabica Grade 4, screen 17/18 quality known as “C-type.”

What Yunnan Coffee Farmers Were Paid That Day

On the same date, the local purchase price for fresh coffee cherries in Yunnan—before processing into green beans—was reported at 99.82 US cents per pound. This converts to about 14.422 RMB per kilogram. The price was provided by Nestlé Yunnan, reflecting what regional growers received for their freshly harvested coffee fruit.

This figure represents the farmgate price for unprocessed coffee in Yunnan, distinct from the globally traded futures or roasted coffee prices, and is critical for understanding local producer economics.

Understanding the Price Gap: Futures vs Local

The difference between the C-type futures price (114.35¢/lb) and the Yunnan local fresh bean price (99.82¢/lb) highlights the gap between global commodity pricing and what local farmers earn. The futures price reflects the anticipated value of delivered, processed, and exported arabica coffee, while the Yunnan figure is what growers receive at origin, pre-processing and before export logistics.

At the time, the 14.49-cent gap per pound (roughly 2.099 RMB/kg) underscores the margin taken up by processing, exporting, and international trade—a key consideration for anyone analyzing the supply chain or sourcing directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the C-type coffee futures price on March 28, 2016?

On March 28, 2016, the C-type coffee futures price closed at 114.35 US cents per pound, which is approximately 16.522 RMB per kilogram. The daily range was 113.6¢/lb (low) to 118.05¢/lb (high), with an opening price of 118¢/lb.

How much did Yunnan local fresh coffee beans cost on that date?

Yunnan local fresh bean prices on March 28, 2016, were 99.82 US cents per pound, around 14.422 RMB per kilogram. This figure comes from Nestlé Yunnan and refers to the price paid for freshly picked coffee cherries before processing.

Why was there a difference between the futures price and Yunnan local price?

The difference—roughly 14.49 US cents per pound—reflects the margins for processing, transportation, exporting, and international trading. The C-type futures price is for processed, export-grade arabica coffee, while Yunnan’s price is for raw, freshly harvested cherries.

What does C-type coffee futures mean?

C-type coffee futures refer to a specific arabica coffee contract traded on NYBOT, representing Grade 4, screen 17/18 quality coffee. It’s the global benchmark price used in commodity trading and does not include origin-specific costs.

Where do these price figures come from?

The C-type futures price is sourced from the New York Futures Exchange. The Yunnan fresh bean price is reported by Nestlé Yunnan. Both figures are for March 28, 2016, and reflect that day’s closing and purchase rates.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Market Context

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