Authorities inspect coffee production materials at World Coffee Company in Bac Gia Nghia Ward, Lam Dong Province, central Vietnam. Photo courtesy of the police
Police in Vietnam have initiated a criminal investigation into a warehouse suspected of producing counterfeit coffee made from soybeans, following a raid earlier this week, as reported by the Ministry of Public Security on Thursday.
During the raid in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong, authorities confiscated 4.1 tons of counterfeit coffee products and 3 tons of raw materials, the ministry stated.
Vietnam is the leading producer of Robusta coffee worldwide, known for its strong and bitter flavor, primarily used in instant coffee products. The Central Highlands region stands as a crucial area for coffee cultivation in the country.
Luong Viet Kiem, the warehouse owner, confessed to officials that his company blended soybeans and flavorings with actual coffee beans to create ground coffee intended for local consumers, according to the statement.
The investigation commenced after police inspected a truck carrying 1,056 bags of ground coffee weighing 528 kilograms, which lacked proper documentation.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the matter.
“Counterfeit coffee products are not uncommon and can be made from soybeans or corn, or a combination of both,” noted Nguyen Quang Tho, a coffee trader from the neighboring province of Dak Lak.
“While soybeans and corn are consumable and significantly less expensive than genuine coffee beans, it remains uncertain whether these fake coffee products are safe for consumption,” added Tho.
In the Central Highlands, coffee beans are currently sold for VND100,500-100,100 (approximately $3.86) per kilogram, about three times the cost of soybeans.
In a related incident, police in the Central Highlands arrested five individuals in 2018 for allegedly using battery chemicals to color waste coffee beans, which they then marketed as black pepper.
Last year, Vietnam exported 1.6 million tons of coffee valued at $8.9 billion, reflecting an 18.3% increase in volume and a 58.8% increase in value, based on government customs data.
Key Takeaways
- Police in Vietnam seized over 4 tons of counterfeit coffee made from soybeans.
- The investigation is centered around a warehouse in the Central Highlands region.
- Confessions reveal that soybeans and flavorings were mixed with real coffee beans for local sales.
- Counterfeit coffee is increasingly common, raising concerns about safety.
- Genuine coffee beans are significantly more expensive than soybean alternatives.
- Vietnam is a leading global producer of Robusta coffee.
FAQ
What was seized in the police raid?
Authorities confiscated 4.1 tons of fake coffee products and 3 tons of raw materials.
Why are counterfeit coffee products a concern?
These products may be made from cheaper ingredients, raising questions about their safety for consumption.
Where was the raid conducted?
The raid took place in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong.
How does the price of coffee compare to soybeans?
Coffee beans are approximately three times more expensive than soybeans in the region.
What is the significance of the Central Highlands for coffee production?
The Central Highlands is a vital area for coffee cultivation in Vietnam, known for its quality Robusta coffee.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about counterfeit goods in the coffee industry. As investigations proceed, the implications for local producers and consumers remain to be seen.
