According to a new report published by Pristine Intelligence Market, titled, “China Coffee Market by Forms, Source, Speciality Coffee, Process, Flavors, Distribution Channel and End-Users: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2022–2030,” The China Coffee market size was valued at $ 93.54 million in 2022, and is projected to reach $ 173.52 million by 2030, registering a CAGR of 8.03% from 2022 to 2030. Coffee is a popular beverage made from roasted and ground seeds, or "beans," of the Coffea plant. It's one of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances in the world, primarily due to its stimulating effects. The two most commonly grown and commercially available species of coffee plants are Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora (commonly known as Robusta).

Traditionally a tea-drinking nation, China has seen a burgeoning interest in coffee culture, driven by urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and Western influences.

Major international coffee chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee have expanded aggressively across China's tier 1 and tier 2 cities, introducing consumers to premium coffee experiences and fostering a café culture. This has spurred domestic coffee shop chains to emerge, catering to diverse consumer preferences and local tastes.

E-commerce platforms have also played a pivotal role in the coffee market's expansion, offering a wide range of imported and domestic coffee products to consumers nationwide. Additionally, innovative coffee products such as ready-to-drink coffee beverages and coffee capsules have gained popularity, appealing to busy urban dwellers seeking convenience.

While coffee consumption is growing rapidly, challenges persist in penetrating China's vast rural areas, where tea remains dominant. However, increasing awareness of coffee's health benefits and ongoing urbanization are gradually bridging this gap. Government initiatives to promote coffee cultivation in regions like Yunnan Province aim to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. This supports China's ambition to become a significant player in the global coffee market.

The growing preference for premium coffee products, including specialty and artisanal coffees, is driving market growth. China has a strong coffee culture, with cafes and coffeehouses playing a significant role in social gatherings and daily routines, boosting consumption. Companies are continually innovating to introduce new flavors, blends, and formats, catering to diverse consumer tastes and preferences. Rising awareness about the health benefits of coffee, such as its antioxidant properties and potential to boost metabolism, is expanding the consumer base. Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards sustainable and ethically sourced coffee products, presenting opportunities for companies to invest in eco-friendly practices. There is a growing niche market for specialty coffee, presenting opportunities for premiumization and differentiation.

China Coffee Market, Segmentation

The China Coffee market is segmented based on Forms, Source, Speciality Coffee, Process, Flavors, Distribution Channel and End-Users.

Form:

The forms segment is further classified into Whole Coffee Beans, Ground Coffee, Instant Coffee, Coffee Pods & Capsules, Espresso, and Others. Among these, the Whole Coffee Beans sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2021. The whole beans segment represents a premium offering, appealing to those willing to invest in higher quality coffee experiences. With growing awareness of fair trade and sustainability, consumers are more inclined to choose whole beans sourced from ethical and environmentally responsible producers.

Source:

The Source segment is further classified into Arabica and Robusta. Among these, the Source Arabica sub-segment is anticipated to show the fastest growth by 2031. The Arabica segment stands as the undisputed leader in the global coffee market, wielding significant influence and dominance. Renowned for its superior quality, Arabica coffee beans are favored by consumers worldwide for their nuanced flavors, aromatic profiles, and smoothness. This segment commands a substantial portion of the market share, owing to its widespread cultivation in regions with optimal growing conditions, including high-altitude areas with ample rainfall and mild temperatures.

Country:

The Coffee market in China is projected to show the fastest growth by 2031. China is poised to dominate the global coffee market in the coming years. Traditionally known for its tea consumption, China's growing middle class and changing consumer preferences have fueled a surge in coffee consumption. The country's large population presents a significant market opportunity for coffee producers and retailers. Additionally, the expansion of international coffee shop chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee across China has contributed to the normalization and acceptance of coffee consumption.

Some of The Leading/Active Market Players Are-

• • Caribou Coffee
  • Pacific Coffee
  • The Coffee Academics
  • Second Cup Coffee
  • Café Coffee Day
  • Starbucks
  • Costa Coffee
  • Lavazza
  • Illycaffè, and Other Active Players

Key Industry Developments

In June 2023, TH International Limited, known as "Tims China" the exclusive operator of Tim Hortons coffee shops and Popeyes restaurants in China, entered into a strategic partnership with Oatly Group AB the world's leading oat drink company. Together, they have introduced a new line of dairy-free ready-to-drink (RTD) oat milk lattes, enhancing Tims China's diverse selection of convenient and delicious RTD beverages. This collaboration leverages Oatly's expertise in oat milk products and Tims China's experience in the coffee industry to offer Chinese consumers a sustainable and plant-based coffee option, aligning with the evolving preferences of health-conscious customers.

In March 2022, Luckin Coffee and IHG Hotels formed a strategic partnership, offering guests at participating Holiday Inn Express hotels in China a complimentary Luckin Coffee takeaway coffee. With 278 Holiday Inn Express hotels across China, IHG Hotels aims to showcase its commitment to providing a 'simple and smart' travel experience, complemented by Luckin Coffee's focus on affordability and convenience. Through this collaboration, members of IHG Hotel's IHG One Rewards program staying at these hotels will receive a complimentary Luckin Coffee takeaway coffee for their breakfast.

Key Findings of the Study 

• • Arabica held the major share of the market accounting near 57% of the total Chinese coffee market.   
  • China's coffee market is experiencing significant growth, driven by urbanization, rising incomes, and Western influences, challenging its traditional tea-drinking culture.
  • Major international coffee chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee have aggressively expanded across China's tier 1 and tier 2 cities, fostering a café culture and prompting the emergence of domestic coffee shop chains.