With a topography and climate similar to the famous Blue Mountains of Jamaica, Baoshan in southwest China is ideally suited to cultivating the highest quality arabica coffee.

Over the past two years, farmers have harvested more than 44,000 tonnes of beans, with a large percentage going for export.

While the coronavirus pandemic has hit the industry, locals are optimistic about a long-term gain provided by a groundbreaking agreement with the European Union (EU).

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At the end of 2019, China and the EU committed to protect at least 100 of each other's geographical indicators. Baoshan coffee was one of the products chosen and will consequently benefit from an enhanced status in Europe.

"The agreement will enhance our bargaining power in the long run, and I believe the government will introduce some new support policies," Li Xiaobo, head of the coffee industry of Yunnan, told CGTN.

As the market recovers, coffee makers are targeting more value-added products such as freeze-dried and cold-brew coffees.