Cambodia's Coffee Bean: A Hidden Gem in Southeast Asia

As I sipped my morning coffee, which has become such an integral part of my daily life, I realized coffee is more than just a caffeine fix—it's a cultural phenomenon that brings together chemistry, tradition, and social connection. From morning energy boosts to creative afternoons at local cafés in Cambodia or anywhere in the world, coffee serves multiple purposes in our society. It's not just about staying alert (though millions, including myself, rely on it for exactly that); it's about creating spaces where people connect, work, and share ideas.

Brazil Leads Global Coffee Market, While Premium Asian Beans Command Luxury Prices

Coffee bean from Brazil

Coffee's global landscape is remarkably competitive and diverse, led by Brazil, which dominates the market by producing 30-35% of the world's coffee beans. Beyond quantity, the industry also features ultra-premium offerings. Notable examples include Indonesia's Kopi Luwak and Thailand's Black Ivory—luxury coffees produced through a unique process where animals digest coffee cherries, creating some of the world's most expensive beans.

Cambodia's Coffee Bean: A Hidden Gem in Southeast Asia

Mondulkiri coffee bean

In Southeast Asia, while Vietnam dominates Robusta bean coffee production, Cambodia is quietly cultivating its own unique coffee identity. The country's coffee industry may be modest, but it's brewing with potential. The heart of Cambodia's coffee plantation lies in Mondulkiri Province, where highland areas and volcanic soil provide ideal conditions for Robusta bean cultivation. Compared to Arabica, which is considered higher quality due to its lower caffeine content, Robusta beans are known for their noticeable bitterness, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a stronger coffee flavor. Robusta beans are also ideal for espresso blends and coffee beverages requiring stronger flavor profiles.

Despite facing challenges like competition from Vietnamese imports and infrastructure limitations, the industry shows promising signs of growth with support of local coffee distributors.

• Kofi Cambodia

• Wat So Coffee

• Feel Good Coffee

• Three Coffee Corner

• MK Mondulkiri Coffee

• CFM Coffee Farm

• CFBR Coffee Farm

Cambodia's Local Coffee Chain

While Starbucks has introduced international coffee standards to Cambodia in 2015, local brands continue to maintain their market share by emphasizing authentic Cambodian coffee experiences and supporting local growers.

Coffee tasting with Syphon [left] and Sorphan [right] at Feel Good Coffee Roaster in Siem Reap [watch behind the scene roasting process vlog at their Phnom Penh facilities]

These local brands are setting new standards for premium coffee experiences in the capital. Leading the charge in Phnom Penh's vibrant café culture are Brown Coffee and social enterprises like Feel Good Coffee. These local brands are setting new standards for premium coffee experiences in the capital.

For coffee enthusiasts and travelers seeking something different, Cambodia's coffee scene offers a fresh perspective on Southeast Asian coffee culture. With continued investment in sustainable farming and specialty processing, these highland beans might soon be able to compete with regional giants.

Whether you're a casual sipper or a coffee connoisseur, you must try Cambodia's local coffee bean experience—whether from a street vendor or café—but be sure to ask if they're using Mondulkiri coffee beans.

Best spot to try Mondulkiri coffee in Phnom Penh city center

• MK Mondulkiri Coffee - map [Central Market ]

What to know more about Cambodia's Coffee? Check-out link below for coffee farm tour if you are Mondulkiri.

• PIDA Coffee Farm

• Coffee Plantation Resort

Coffee Tasting - Contact the following establishment

• Feel Good Coffee Roaster Siem Reap