Coffee trade began to flourish in the 16th century, with Yemen as the world's main coffee supplier. Coffee trade at that time was confined to the Middle East region, where coffee was considered a sacred drink in Islam.

In the 17th century, coffee trade began to expand to Europe, where it was introduced to Italy by Turkish merchants. Coffee quickly became popular in Europe, where cafes were opened in many major cities.

The expansion of coffee trade to Europe had a profound impact on European culture. Cafes became centers of social and cultural interaction, where people gathered to discuss news and ideas. Coffee also played a major role in the European cultural Renaissance, where it was a source of inspiration for artists and writers.

The Early Stages of Coffee Trade

Coffee trade in the early days was confined to the Middle East region, with Yemen as the world's main coffee supplier. Coffee trade at that time was conducted informally, where merchants purchased coffee from farmers in Yemen and transported it to markets in Egypt, Syria, and Turkey.

The process of transporting coffee from Yemen to European markets was long and difficult, as merchants had to travel across the desert or sea. Coffee was also expensive at that time, with its price equal to the price of gold.

Expansion to Europe

Coffee trade began to expand to Europe in the 17th century, where it was introduced to Italy by Turkish merchants. Coffee quickly became popular in Europe, where cafes were opened in many major cities.

The expansion of coffee trade to Europe had a profound impact on European culture. Cafes became centers of social and cultural interaction, where people gathered to discuss news and ideas. Coffee also played a major role in the European Renaissance, where it was a source of inspiration for artists and writers.

Expansion to the World

In the 18th century, coffee trade began to expand to other parts of the world, where it was introduced to North America, Southeast Asia, and South America. Coffee quickly became a popular drink around the world.

Today, coffee is one of the most valuable commercial commodities in the world. Coffee is produced in over 70 countries, with Brazil producing the largest amount of coffee in the world.

Conclusion

Coffee trade has gone through many stages of development since its discovery in East Africa. Coffee trade began as a small and informal trade in the Arabian Peninsula, then spread to Europe and the world. Today, coffee is one of the most valuable commercial commodities in the world.

Additional Details

In addition to the information provided above, here are some additional details about coffee trade in the early days:

• Coffee was originally roasted over an open fire or in a clay oven.
• Coffee was often brewed in a large pot over an open fire.
• Coffee was often served with spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Coffee was often used as a stimulant, and it was believed to help people stay awake and alert.

Coffee trade has a long and fascinating history. It has been a major driver of economic growth and cultural exchange around the world.