Heavy rains in Colombia could bring a shortfall of arabica beans this year, potentially raising the price of espresso drinks.
Heavy rain from La Niña is affecting coffee crops in Colombia, potentially raising the price of our lattes and cappuccinos. Arabica beans, used in most espresso drinks, are already lower in supply this year due to drought in Brazil, the world’s largest producer. Now, the second-biggest bean-growing country Colombia could lose 15 percent of its crop if the rain leads to fungal disease. The shortages will likely affect all coffee roasters including Starbucks, which are currently using beans in inventory instead of raising prices, according to Bloomberg. One expert estimated that Colombia’s arabica bean production will be down 500,000 bags from six million, just one year ago. The rest of the season will depend on how remaining crops survive.
