Last week’s tropical cyclones in northern Sumatra triggered flooding and landslides that have killed more than 300 people across Indonesia, with many more still missing.
These conditions are directly affecting key coffee-producing areas.
Impact on Aceh, Gayo and Medan
After days of nonstop rain, the Gayo Highlands and surrounding Aceh districts experienced major flooding and landslides. Roads and bridges have been swept away, and many suppliers and processors remain out of contact.
Last Thursday, flooding also reached Medan, where at least two exporters’ warehouses were flooded. While waters are receding, damage is significant.
Supply and Looking Ahead
Both major Aceh-to-Medan roads are out, and internal roads in Aceh are heavily damaged. With coffee unable to move reliably toward Medan, many exporters are temporarily refraining from offering coffee. Shipments for November, December — and realistically January — may be delayed, as activity in the affected areas is expected to slow in the days and weeks ahead.
Recovery efforts are underway, but the situation remains fluid. We will continue to share updates as they become available. Our thoughts are with the coffee families and communities affected by this tragedy. •
