China Becomes Ethiopia's Third-Largest Coffee Buyer

China Moves Ahead of the United States

China became the third-largest buyer of Ethiopian coffee during the 2025/26 Ethiopian fiscal year, according to data from the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority. Ethiopia shipped 47,836 tonnes of coffee to China and earned $347 million, moving the market from fifth place a year earlier to third behind Saudi Arabia and Germany.

The increase was substantial in both volume and value. During the previous fiscal year, China purchased 34,284 tonnes worth $219 million. That means the latest result represents growth of approximately 40 percent in volume and 58 percent in revenue.

From Emerging Destination to Core Market

ECTA Deputy Director General Shafi Umer said China entered Ethiopia's top ten coffee destinations only two years ago, when it ranked seventh after purchasing 12,163 tonnes. Its rapid rise reflects stronger trade links, improved delivery services, market promotion, and growing demand for organic and specialty coffee among younger Chinese consumers.

The latest fiscal-year figures also build on a longer trend identified by the USDA. Its 2026 Ethiopia Coffee Annual described China as one of the most dynamic markets for Ethiopian beans, supported by expanding cafe chains, e-commerce, direct sourcing, and a shift from instant coffee toward freshly brewed and specialty products.

What the Shift Means for Exporters and Buyers

A larger Chinese market gives Ethiopian exporters more geographic balance alongside established buyers in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. ECTA said the ten largest destinations generated more than 79 percent of Ethiopia's record $3 billion in coffee export revenue, making diversification within that group increasingly important.

For buyers, faster demand growth in China can increase competition for traceable, high-grade lots. Importers planning purchases of Ethiopian green coffee beans should communicate volume, grade, processing method, and shipment windows early, particularly for distinctive regional coffees with limited availability.