taz.de
German Coffee Prices Surge 12.2 Percent Amidst Climate Change and Labor Shortages
German bean coffee prices increased by 12.2 percent in April 2025, exceeding overall food and general inflation, due to climate change impacting harvests in major producing countries like Brazil and Vietnam, and labor shortages caused by emigration driven by low and unstable prices.
- What are the potential long-term implications of these converging factors on the global coffee market and consumption patterns?
- The combination of climate change and labor migration creates a double bind for coffee production, potentially making coffee a luxury item once again, as it was in the 1950s. Experiments with more robust coffee varieties are underway, but the long-term impact remains uncertain, indicating potential for continued price increases.
- How do climate change and labor migration in coffee-producing countries specifically contribute to the current global coffee shortage?
- This coffee price surge stems from climate change impacting harvests in major coffee-producing nations like Brazil and Vietnam, causing shortages and emptying stockpiles. Simultaneously, labor shortages due to emigration from coffee-producing regions, driven by low and unstable coffee prices, exacerbate the issue.
- What are the primary factors driving the significant increase in coffee prices in Germany, and what are the immediate consequences for consumers?
- In April 2025, German consumer prices for bean coffee surged by 12.2 percent, significantly exceeding overall food price inflation (2.8 percent) and general inflation (2.1 percent). This follows a similar 31 percent increase compared to April 2021, indicating a long-term upward trend.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the rising coffee prices as a significant economic issue, emphasizing the substantial percentage increases and drawing attention to the potential long-term effects. The headline and opening sentences immediately highlight the price increase, setting the tone for the rest of the article. This emphasis may disproportionately focus on the economic impact compared to the social and environmental factors.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the economic and environmental factors driving up coffee prices, neglecting potential impacts on consumers beyond price increases. While mentioning migration from coffee-producing countries, it doesn't delve into the social and political ramifications of this trend for those communities. The article also omits discussion of alternative coffee sources or potential solutions besides increased Robusta production.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the future of coffee, implying a potential return to its status as a luxury good. While acknowledging experiments with Robusta, it doesn't explore other potential solutions, such as technological advancements in coffee farming or shifts in consumer demand.
Gender Bias
The article does not exhibit overt gender bias. The source quoted, Andreas Felsen, is identified by name and title without reference to gender. However, the article might benefit from including diverse voices and perspectives, particularly those of individuals directly affected by the changing coffee market, such as farmers and workers.
Sustainable Development Goals
Rising coffee prices disproportionately affect low-income populations, reducing their purchasing power and potentially increasing poverty levels. The article highlights that coffee could become a luxury item again, further exacerbating this issue for vulnerable groups.