China’s budding thirst for coffee
The fast-growing industry is giving tea a run for its money, reports Jason Lai.
The Chinese have embraced one of the most popular pick-me-ups in the world.
Coffee consumption in China – traditionally a nation of tea drinkers – has nearly tripled in the past five years, and it’s proving to be a lucrative industry for growers and roasters.
In the town of Pu’er, home to over 60% of China’s coffee production, the average farmer can earn double what they would get for growing tea.
While the fashion for coffee still has a long way to go – average consumption is only a few cups per person per year – the market is growing by 15% annually.
Jason Lai takes a look at the industry giving tea a run for its money.
Tales from Modern China airs on BBC World News, 7 July 2017. Check the schedule for details.