Green coffee bean Coffee beans that have been peeled, cleaned and dried but not roasted, are the main export form of Vietnamese coffee. To export green coffee beans, businesses need to classify according to standards, control humidity, pack appropriately, do plant quarantine according to importing country requirements and register with Chinese Customs (GACC) appropriately when exporting to China.
What types of green coffee include?
Vietnam exports two main strains: Robusta and Arabica. Each line has its own growing area, seed characteristics and customer profile.
| Criteria | Robusta | Arabica |
|---|---|---|
| Popular growing area | Central Highlands and some Southeast provinces | Highlands such as Lam Dong, Son La, Quang Tri |
| Particle shape | Round, smaller seeds | Seed long, middle groove curved |
| Flavor after roasting | Bold, bitter, thick in texture | Sour, rich flavor |
| Application | Instant coffee, blend, espresso | Specialty coffee, machine brewed, manual brewed |
In addition to varieties, green kernels are also divided according to preliminary processing methods such as dry processing, wet processing or honey. The way of processing clearly affects the flavor and value of the batch.
Classification and quality standards of green kernels
Classified by grain size and defects
Green kernels are usually sieved according to grain size and the percentage of faulty kernels such as black kernels, broken kernels, brown kernels, and impurities is counted. Quality class is agreed with the buyer based on these criteria.
Humidity
Humidity is a key criterion. Seeds that are too moist can easily become moldy, produce odors, and lose weight when at sea for long periods of time; Seeds that are too dry will break easily and lose quality. Specific moisture levels need to be stated in the contract and checked before packaging.
- Seed color is uniform, no black seeds or moldy seeds.
- No strange smells, smoke or chemical smells.
- There are no live insects, impurities, or gravel.
Bag and preserve green coffee beans
- Jute bags or PP bags: Popular packing method for bulk goods.
- Multi-layer lining: Used for specialty products to preserve flavor and limit moisture absorption.
- Packing in containers: Container lining is available for large orders when the buyer agrees.
- Dry, clean containers: You can use hygroscopic materials to avoid condensation.
- Wooden pallets: Must be handled according to ISPM 15 if used.
Procedures for exporting green coffee beans
Plant quarantine
Green kernels are products of plant origin that have not been thermally processed, so many countries require a phytosanitary certificate. Enterprises register for quarantine with competent authorities and comply with the requirements of the importing country, which may include disinfection treatment.
When exported to China
Businesses need to register with GACC according to the appropriate product group. The specific group and registration form should be determined based on official instructions on customs.gov.cn or with the competent authority, avoiding self-speculation. Order 280 takes effect June 1, 2026, replacing Order 248; The code according to Order 248 is still valid and can still be used. If you change the production address or legal representative, you must re-register. China Customs does not charge registration fees.
- Agree on the contract: type, grade, moisture content, packaging.
- Check quality and take samples before packing.
- Register for plant quarantine and customs declaration.
- Container packing, sealing and delivery.
Documents are often needed
- Contracts, commercial invoices, packing slips.
- Plant quarantine certificate.
- Certificate of origin to enjoy tax incentives.
- Certificate of quality and quantity when requested by the buyer.
- Disinfection certificate if processed.
- Customs declaration, bill of lading.
Frequently asked questions
Does green coffee need plant quarantine?
The majority of the market requires it, but to varying degrees. Businesses should check the specific requirements of the importing country before delivering goods.
Does exporting green kernels to China require GACC registration?
Businesses need to register in accordance with the product group. Groups should be determined based on official instructions so that records are not incorrect from the start.
Should it be packed in jute bags or multi-layer bags?
Large commercial goods often use jute or PP bags. Specialty products should use multi-layer lining to better retain flavor and prevent moisture.
Conclude
Standard green coffee beans need the right variety, right grade, humidity control and clear quarantine records. Andwind supports procedural consulting, plant quarantine, appropriate GACC registration and transportation for your batch of green coffee beans.
Need advice on procedures, codes or shipping? Contact Andwind – Zalo 0967948685 · andwind.vn