UN Declares October 1 as International Coffee Day

The UN General Assembly has officially declared October 1 as International Coffee Day, an annual observance to highlight coffee’s importance for communities, economies, and food security.

The resolution supports millions of farmers worldwide, creates jobs, and is a symbol of culture and tradition across generations. It also contributes to goals like fighting hunger, reducing poverty, empowering women, and promoting decent work.

FAO Director-General QU Dongyu said, “Coffee connects rural communities to markets worldwide. Recognizing its value will raise awareness of its socio-economic importance and help reduce poverty.”

Coffee is a key global commodity, supporting around 25 million farmers and generating more than $200 billion in annual revenue. Major producers include Brazil and Viet Nam, while the EU and USA are the largest importers. For countries like Ethiopia, Uganda, and Burundi, coffee exports make up a significant portion of income and foreign exchange.