It’s no longer news that coffee imports to the USA are more expensive after the recent round of tariffs. This is currently impacting all coffee origins with the exception of Mexico, and some have been hit harder than others - most notably Brazil, which supplies around 30% of the green coffee to the USA, and was hit with a 50% import tariff.  The timing of this is really bad for roasters and producers alike as we enter the buying season for Brazilian coffees. 

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As roasters and business owners, the tariffs throw up all sorts of challenges and dilemmas, and there’s not one simple one-size-fits-all solution. 

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Check our latest information about the US tariffs here.

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What are your options now? 

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If you already buy directly from producers in Brazil, our first recommendation is to talk to them. Through active dialog you can share your problems and discuss possible solutions together. Even if you reduce the amount of coffee you buy at the moment, while the tariffs are so high, this information is helpful for the producer to know as early as possible. 

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If you don't have an established relationship with your Brazilian coffee producer what are your options?

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Proactive roasters we’ve spoken to are exploring changing their blends, while aiming to maintain consistent flavour profiles - which is not easy - as well as reviewing prices and margins, and putting foundations in place for price increases. 

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A Roaster Panel on the front lines

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Navigating this new reality is difficult alone. That's why we're bringing together four US roasters on the front lines of this issue for a candid, peer-to-peer discussion. Hosted by RoasterKat, join Natalie Van Dusen (Treeline Coffee), Patrick Riordan (Palace Coffee) and Sam LaRobardiere (Theory Coffee) to hear how they are adapting their strategies, pivoting their blends, and communicating with their customers.

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So what are alternative coffees you can consider? 

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Our QC and sourcing team have curated a list of alternatives that may be good alternatives for high volume Brazil coffees. In creating this, we’ve considered things like price, flavour profile, processing, certifications, producer type to support relationship driven buyers, and of course, availability at this time. 

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Samples are free to order, and our team is here to help with any questions you may have. 

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This list will be updated weekly, so check back from time to time. 

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