Mexico/Central and South America, Africa/The Middle East, and Southeast Asia make up the regions of what is known in the industry as the “Bean Belt”. These three regions are all located along the equatorial zone between the Tropic of Cancer (23½° N) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23½° S). Ideal elevations for growing coffee are between the ranges of 800 - 2,200 meters above sea level. Because of this, the bean belt is perfectly suited due to its mountainous regions.
In the Mexico and Central America region of the bean belt, most coffee beans are produced in Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, and most notably Costa Rica which has exceptional growing conditions due to its mountainous regions and warm temperatures. Most coffee beans in this region are medium-bodied and mild. Coffee beans here have medium acidity and a clean, bright taste. It’s no wonder coffee from this region is enjoyed all over the world.
The South American coffee region spans an enormous landmass which includes Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, and Ecuador. Most coffee produced here is either green or arabica. Colombian coffee is considered one of the most popular coffees, while Brazil produces the highest volume of coffee beans anywhere in the world. South American coffee is typically mild-bodied, smoother, and often has a chocolate aftertaste.
Coffee has been grown and consumed in Southeast Asia for hundreds of years. Vietnamese and Indonesian coffee beans tend to be the most popular. Sumatra produces coffee that is low acidity, earthy with rich dark chocolate-tasting beans.