Sri Lanka’s once-fading coffee industry is entering its most promising resurgence in decades, driven by renewed cultivation, upgraded processing, and a new generation of brands determined to re-establish the island on the global specialty coffee map. Leading this revival is The Beans Coffee Factory, a homegrown company working to elevate local coffee, strengthen rural livelihoods, and craft a distinct Sri Lankan flavour identity ready for international competition.
This momentum took centre stage at the Curated Coffee Showcase in Colombo, a landmark event hosted by The Beans Coffee Factory. The gathering brought together processors, hospitality leaders, and a high-profile foreign delegation, marking one of the most important milestones yet for the re-emerging sector.
Adding exceptional prestige to the occasion was the participation of Her Royal Highness Queen Bakembisa Kuyalu Mafuta, whose presence signalled global recognition of Sri Lanka’s coffee revival.
The highlight of the showcase was the signing of a breakthrough MoU with Smart Coffee UK, opening direct pathways for premium Sri Lankan coffee into European specialty markets. The agreement marks a turning point for both visibility and commercial growth, positioning Sri Lankan producers for stronger global integration.
A Brand Rooted in Purpose and Community
Founded with the ambition of restoring Sri Lanka’s coffee identity, The Beans Coffee Factory works directly with smallholder farmers across the highlands to source 100% local Arabica. Their model emphasises traceability, ethical sourcing, and quality assurance at every stage.
The company notes that its mission stems from a simple belief: Sri Lankan coffee, long overlooked, deserves global appreciation for its craftsmanship and heritage.
At the showcase, guests experienced this story firsthand—tasting regional variations, learning processing techniques, and connecting with the farmers behind each harvest. The company positioned itself not only as a brand, but as a guardian of Sri Lanka’s coffee legacy.
Sector on the Rise
Sri Lanka’s coffee production is steadily strengthening, with more than 2,000 smallholder farmers expanding their acreage in recent years. Growing global demand for traceable, ethically produced coffee has further encouraged investment. The Beans Coffee Factory provides technical training, supports processors, and helps producers meet international specialty standards, improving quality, yields, and income security for rural families.
Global Recognition and a Strategic UK Partnership
Queen Mafuta’s participation underscored international interest in Sri Lanka’s renewed coffee narrative. The Smart Coffee UK partnership is expected to unlock co-developed products, new market formats, and enhanced R&D opportunities—while keeping the company’s central promise intact: Sri Lanka’s finest coffee will first serve Sri Lankans.
A Distinct Origin with Global Potential
High-altitude cultivation and rich soils give Sri Lankan coffee a clean, smooth cup profile with subtle acidity and notes of caramel, cocoa, and citrus. The Beans Coffee Factory preserves these characteristics through small-batch roasting and meticulous profiling, reinforcing the island’s distinctive identity.
As the industry expands, new opportunities are emerging for youth from processing and roasting to barista training and entrepreneurship signalling a vibrant future ahead.
The Curated Coffee Showcase stands as a defining step toward Sri Lanka becoming a globally recognised specialty origin: confident, ethical, and ready for the world