The latest Tea and Coffee Industry in South Africa report has been published, covering a range of topics from processing, sales and retail outlets to bean pricing and consumption.
According to the report, South Africa remains dependent on coffee imports as local production remains minimal. In 2024, the country saw an increase in imports of coffee and tea by 10 per cent, driven by rising demand.
Coffee prices have also risen and reached record highs, despite a slight decline since March 2025. The report outlines how the cost increases may have led consumers to trade down.
However, despite the increase of coffee prices, the demand for ground coffee in the country continues to rise. The growth is fuelled by a growing coffee culture in South Africa and the expansion of coffee outlets such as Pret A Manger, which launched its first local store in February 2025.
The report outlines the coffee industry in South Africa faces multiple challenges, including climate change, land expropriation, and low economic growth. Combined, these factors are said to limit the demand of specialty coffee products.
There were 32 companies named in the report, including major processors and suppliers such as Unilever, National Brands and Nestlé.
