Quick answerIn recent decades many Yemeni farmers replaced coffee with qat, a stimulant leaf that sells quickly in local markets but uses large amounts of water. Rising global demand and fairer prices for specialty Yemeni coffee give farmers a reason to return to coffee, which is a valuable export crop.
The challenge
- Qat pays fast and steadily locally.
- Coffee takes years to mature and must reach export markets.
- Water is scarce.
How buyers help
When coffee lovers pay fair prices for traceable Yemeni beans, coffee becomes more viable for farm families.
Frequently asked questions
What is qat?
A leafy plant chewed as a mild stimulant in Yemen and East Africa.
Why is coffee better for farmers long term?
It is an export crop with growing premium demand.
How can I help?
Buy authentic Yemeni coffee from transparent sellers.
Every bag supports Yemeni coffee: shop Al-Aqeeq.

