Dak Lak Coffee: The “Capital” of Robusta in Vietnam
With 212,915 hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation, Dak Lak has become the largest coffee-producing province in Vietnam. In recent years, due to significant investments in farming, harvesting, and processing high-quality coffee varieties, Dak Lak coffee has gradually become a destination for many international customers.
History of Dak Lak Coffee
Dak Lak coffee has a tradition of over 70 years, encompassing many sustainable factors that have helped coffee from this “capital” grow strongly, not only in Vietnam but also internationally.
Coffee was introduced to Vietnam in 1857 by the French, initially with the Arabica variety, which was later brought to the Central Highlands and Southeast regions. To this day, in terms of scale and fame, no place in Vietnam compares to Dak Lak.
Arabica coffee was first experimented with in Buon Ma Thuot before the Indochina Governor-General issued a decree to establish Dak Lak province as an administrative unit in 1904.
Between 1912 and 1914, Arabica truly made its mark in Buon Ma Thuot. At this time, the French government allowed the establishment of two agricultural companies with a total coffee-growing area of 260 hectares.
By 1931, the total area of coffee cultivation in Dak Lak had reached 2,130 hectares, ranking fourth in the country. Of this, 51% was Arabica, 33% was Robusta, and the remainder was other varieties.
By 1959, there were 49 coffee plantations with a total area of over 5,200 hectares. In 1975, the area increased to 8,600 hectares, with an annual production of over 11,000 tons, mostly Robusta coffee.
After 1986, thanks to the economic reform policy of the Party and the State, Dak Lak province focused on intensive farming, establishing specialized coffee-growing areas such as Krong Pah, Cu M’ga, and Ea h’leo. These areas now account for 86% of the province’s coffee-growing area and 89% of its total coffee production.
Today, Robusta coffee has become a symbol and source of pride for Dak Lak province, making significant contributions to its GDP and annual export turnover.
Characteristics of Dak Lak Coffee Growing Areas
Geographical Location
Located at an altitude of 500 to 700 meters above sea level with mineral-rich soil, Dak Lak primarily grows Arabica and Robusta coffee, with Robusta making up the majority of the area.
Dak Lak coffee is grown in intercropping systems, meaning it is planted alongside other crops like rubber, cashew, or rice. This helps reduce the risk of soil erosion and disease. The harvest season in Dak Lak typically runs from November to December each year.
Climate
Dak Lak has a tropical climate that is relatively mild, making it an ideal environment for growing coffee.
The average annual temperature is 24°C, with abundant sunlight. Rainfall is considerable, around 2,000 mm annually, with an average humidity of 81%, and no typhoons.
Taste of Dak Lak Coffee
Dak Lak coffee has a unique and distinctive flavor. Arabica has a gentle, refreshing taste, with prominent herbal and fruity notes. Meanwhile, Robusta has a strong, rich flavor with bitterness and a lingering aftertaste.
Thanks to careful processing and cultivation, Dak Lak coffee is known for its high purity, free from impurities or added flavors, allowing its natural taste to shine.
Expectations for the Future of the Coffee Industry in Dak Lak
Dak Lak is at the threshold of achieving its goal of making Buon Ma Thuot a global coffee destination, receiving considerable attention from domestic sectors. In recent years, the coffee industry in Dak Lak has also focused on improving quality and processing specialty coffee.
In parallel, coffee growers are also focusing on developing coffee varieties to help position Vietnamese coffee on the global agricultural map.
Many hope that by 2050, Buon Ma Thuot will become the “Coffee Capital of the World.”
Where to Buy Dak Lak Coffee?
Although located in Gia Lai province, VCU has an extensive network connecting with large farms and households in neighboring provinces. This enables VCU to source a large quantity of fresh coffee from local areas, contributing to the production of various coffee types such as Robusta Clean, Robusta Honey, and Arabica Full-Wash.
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By the end of 2024, VCU had exported to over 13 countries and territories, including demanding markets like the United States, Japan, and Australia.
We are confident in the quality of our products and services offered to both domestic and international markets. If you are interested in Dak Lak coffee, please contact VCU!
Contact Information
VCU Joint Stock Company (VCU JSC)
Address:
– Roasting Facility: Residential Group 6, Chu Prong Town, Chu Prong District, Gia Lai Province
– Green Bean Facility: Ia Der Commune, Ia Grai District, Gia Lai Province
– Hotline: +84 941 203 879
– Fanpage: VCU – Vietnam Coffee United
– Email: info@vietnamcoffeeunited.com
