What does the "coffee belt" refer to?

The term "coffee belt" specifically refers to the region around the equator where conditions are most favorable for coffee cultivation. This area typically extends between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, encompassing countries in Central and South America, Africa, and parts of Asia.

The climate in this zone provides the necessary temperature, rainfall, and altitude that coffee plants require to thrive. These factors contribute to the distinct flavor profiles and qualities of coffee from various regions within the coffee belt. Understanding this geographical concept is essential for appreciating how terroir influences coffee characteristics, and it underscores the importance of climate and environmental factors in agricultural production.