US representatives Jill Tokuda and William Timmons have launched the bipartisan Congressional Coffee Caucus, aimed at supporting the US coffee industry and strengthening the global coffee supply chain.

The caucus will focus on three key areas. First, agricultural resilience, by increasing research and development funding to support coffee farmers in the US, including in Hawaiʻi and Puerto Rico, as well as globally. Second, economic development, by promoting coffee in trade and economic policy to support a strong US coffee market and help drive development in coffee-producing countries. Third, will advance scientific research into coffee’s potential health benefits.

The initiative has gained support from industry groups, including the National Coffee Association (NCA) and the Hawaiʻi Coffee Growers Association, which welcomed the caucus as a step forward in recognising coffee’s economic and cultural significance.

The bipartisan group includes 19 members from both parties, representing a range of coffee-producing and coffee-consuming states.

NCA's president and CEO, William 'Bill' Murray, said: “With two-thirds of American adults drinking coffee each day, NCA is proud to see Congressional leaders sharing the joy of coffee and kicking off this historic effort to recognise coffee as a touchstone in Americans’ daily lives and a huge driver of economic value in every US state and territory."

Tokuda highlighted: "Coffee is more than just a daily ritual – it’s a vital pillar of our economy, supporting millions of farmers, businesses and communities across the country. From the fields in my home state of Hawaiʻi, to the roasteries and manufacturing plants in South Carolina and Vermont, coffee is consumed and enjoyed in every congressional district in the nation."

"That’s why I’m proud to launch the Congressional Coffee Caucus with my colleague Timmons to highlight the positive impacts of our coffee industry that brings people together, one cup at a time."

Timmons added: “Coffee is a vital part of the US economy, supporting millions of American jobs and generating billions in revenue from coast to coast. Beyond that, its health benefits keep our workforce sharp."

"The Coffee Caucus celebrates this powerhouse industry by uniting lawmakers over a cup, fostering bipartisan collaboration, and paving the way for policies that strengthen both our economy and our well-being."