Shipping coffee from Vietnam to the EU

Notably, the European Union (EU) has remained the largest market for Vietnamese coffee in 2024. Germany, Italy, and Spain are the three largest coffee-consuming markets in Europe for Vietnam, holding market shares of 11%, 8.1%, and 8%¹, respectively.

This strong existing trade provides a solid foundation for Vietnamese SMEs not currently exporting to the EU to explore this key market. The potential for local exporters and producers to tap into the lucrative EU coffee industry is significant, and to support this vital trade, trusted logistics providers like DHL Express Vietnam stand as key partners in bringing Vietnamese coffee to European consumers.

Understanding the EU coffee market and consumer preferences

Established coffee exports to Europe from Vietnam provide a good foundation. However, there is still immense untapped potential. According to the European Coffee Report 2022/2023, coffee consumption in the EU averages 5.7 kg per capita, ranking third globally behind only Brazil and Canada. Several EU nations boast even more remarkable numbers, such as Finland (11.8 kg), Denmark (8.7 kg), and the Netherlands (8.2 kg)².

Furthermore, Vietnam primarily grows Robusta and Arabica coffee beans. The robust, bold flavor of Vietnamese Robusta is highly sought after for espresso blends and strong coffee drinks. At the same time, the more aromatic and nuanced Arabica varieties are increasingly recognized in the industry for their suitability in the specialty coffee segment. 

Europe is the largest specialty coffee market in the world. As reported by WhaTech, their specialty coffee market is expected to grow at an annual average compound annual growth rate of 13% over the period 2022-2030³, a trend that Vietnamese exporters can strategically capitalize on.

Navigating EU import regulations for coffee

Shipping coffee to the EU requires Vietnamese exporters to ensure their products meet various legal and non-legal regulations, particularly concerning stringent food safety standards. In addition, consumers across Europe maintain high expectations, especially regarding the safety and sustainability of their food and beverages. Here’s a breakdown of key EU import regulations⁴ for coffee:

European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)

The EUDR is a critical aspect of exporting coffee to Europe. This regulation bans imports into the EU of coffee products originating from land that was deforested after 31 December 2020. To comply, cooperatives and exporters must provide detailed information about their products, including their precise origin. It is also essential to ensure that your coffee is not associated with deforestation or related issues such as forest and land rights violations and conflicts. This necessitates improved traceability systems down to the farm level, adherence to open data transparency protocols, and making your data readily shareable with potential buyers in the EU.

Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D)

The CS3D is becoming increasingly compulsory for all companies outside Europe that sell products or services in EU countries, including those involved in the export of Vietnamese coffee. This directive requires businesses to ensure that their suppliers also have responsible business practices in place. Many social and environmental issues can occur at the farm level, which may not be a direct part of handling and processing activities.

To meet these standards, Vietnamese cooperatives must actively work to reduce their carbon footprint, for example, by replacing chemical fertilizers with organic waste and practicing organic farming methods. Utilizing green energy sources where possible, or employing fuel-efficient vehicles and machinery (for example, at hulling, washing, and drying stations), is also crucial.

EU food safety standards

When further processing coffee shipments, the EU requires strict adherence to hygienic standards based on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles. While not typically necessary for green coffee shipments, it may be needed for processed coffee products like roasted beans or ground coffee. Controlling food contamination is paramount, including natural contaminants such as: 

• Pesticides
• Mycotoxins/mold
• Pathogens
• Extraction solvents
• Hydrocarbons
• Other contaminants like Acrylamide.

Vietnamese exporters must regularly check and comply with the specific limits outlined in (EU) 2023/915 and any subsequent amendments.

EU packaging and labeling requirements

Adhering to the EU regulations on food labeling and packaging is essential for all coffee shipments. For green coffee, this includes:

• Product name
• International Coffee Organization (ICO) identification code
• Country of origin
• Grade
• Net weight in kilograms
• Supplier’s name
• Name/code of the inspection body and certification number (for certified coffee)

For pre-packed coffee products, additional information is required:

• Ingredient list
• Allergen information
• Date marking (best before/use by)
• Special storage conditions
• Instructions for use
• Alcohol level (if applicable)
• Nutrition declaration

It is crucial to ensure that all details on the label are accurate, easily legible, and in no way misleading to consumers. Utilizing the Food Labelling Information System can help exporters verify the mandatory EU labeling indications for their coffee shipments.

Additional food safety requirements for green beans

Beyond the basic EU regulations, buyers of green coffee shipments may also ask for adherence to specific food safety management systems such as ISO 9001, ISO 22000, or HACCP certification. While HACCP is a fundamental starting point, some buyers may require more rigorous schemes like FSSC 22000 or BRCGS certification as a condition of purchase.

Additional quality criteria for green beans

The quality of green coffee shipments is typically graded and classified before export. While there is no single universal grading and classification system for coffee recognized globally, the Specialty Coffee Association’s (SCA) standards for green coffee grading are frequently used as a valuable reference point by buyers in the EU market.

Sustainability certifications

Increasingly, EU buyers prioritize sustainable packaging and sustainably sourced coffee. Relevant certifications like Rainforest Alliance and Fairtrade can provide a significant competitive advantage. It is important to note that only a certifier accredited by the EU can be used, and Vietnamese exporters must follow the specific guidelines set by certification bodies recognized by the European Commission.

Step-by-step guide: how to export coffee from Vietnam to the EU

Here are practical steps for SMEs to begin exporting coffee from Vietnam to the EU:

1. Select the right coffee varieties for the EU market: Understand the demand for specific Arabica and Robusta profiles and their suitability for different brewing methods preferred in the EU.
2. Prepare coffee for export (processing, packaging): Ensure proper processing methods to meet EU quality standards and utilize appropriate packaging, as mentioned above, to maintain freshness during transit.
3. Understand and meet EU-specific requirements: Meticulously adhere to all EU regulations regarding product information, origin, and allergens on your coffee shipments. For more detailed and the latest information on EU import regulations for coffee, Vietnamese coffee exporters can refer to the Access2Markets website of the European Commission.
4. Secure a reliable logistics partner: Collaborate with an experienced provider like DHL Express to navigate customs procedures, ensure timely coffee shipments, and handle the complexities of international shipping to the EU.

Optimizing logistics for coffee exports with DHL Express

Choosing the right logistics provider is crucial for the successful logistics of exporting coffee to the EU. DHL Express possesses extensive expertise in handling agricultural exports, including Vietnamese coffee exports, to the EU market. Our services ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process:

• Temperature-controlled shipping solutions: Maintaining the optimal temperature during global transit to preserve the quality and flavor of your coffee shipments.
• Customs clearance and EU documentation assistance: Providing expert guidance and support to navigate the complex EU import regulations and documentation requirements.
• Real-time tracking and delivery services within the EU: Offering complete visibility of your coffee shipments and reliable delivery throughout the EU.

Packaging and labeling for EU coffee shipments

Implementing best practices for packaging coffee is essential to ensure its freshness and quality during transit to EU destinations. This includes using appropriate materials to protect against moisture, light, and physical damage.

The specific packaging requirements will ultimately depend on the type of coffee product you are exporting, whether it's green beans, roasted beans, or ground coffee. Similar to the labeling regulations detailed above, specific rules also need to be followed for packaging materials.

For example, packaging materials can consist of fibers that have been softened by mineral oils or have been written on with mineral oil-based ink. These could lead to potential Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH) contamination of your green beans when shipping coffee abroad.

Accurate and compliant labeling is crucial for all coffee shipments entering the EU market. Furthermore, exploring sustainable packaging options can appeal to the growing segment of environmentally conscious EU consumers.

Building your brand in the EU coffee market

Aside from understanding how to export Vietnamese coffee globally, building a strong brand presence and understanding consumer preferences are crucial for success. Successfully marketing Vietnamese coffee to European consumers requires a nuanced approach. This includes:

• Leveraging Vietnam's coffee heritage: Highlighting the unique history and cultivation practices of Vietnamese coffee to create a compelling brand story.
• Highlighting unique flavor profiles for the EU palate: Emphasizing the specific taste characteristics of your Arabica and Robusta varieties that align with European consumer preferences.
• Utilizing digital marketing strategies targeting EU consumers: Employing online platforms and targeted advertising to reach potential buyers and build brand awareness within the EU market.

Expanding your coffee business in the EU with DHL Express

The EU coffee market presents significant opportunities for Vietnamese SMEs looking to expand their coffee export business. By understanding consumer preferences and navigating import regulations effectively, local Vietnamese coffee producers can tap into this lucrative market.

And to ensure seamless logistics, DHL Express stands as a trusted logistics partner for international shipping. We offer reliable and efficient shipping to Europe from Vietnam with additional services, such as on-demand delivery, shipment insurance, climate-neutral services, and more to streamline your global export process.

Open a DHL Express business account today to take the first step towards shipping coffee abroad and unlock the potential of Europe's coffee industry.