Wagayi, a coffee company with operations in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, is developing a supply chain linking African coffee-growing regions with roasting and retail operations in the city.

The company has imported nearly 500 metric tons of green coffee beans from Africa so far this year. Instead of relying solely on intermediaries, it has established a sourcing team in African coffee-growing regions.

Customers enjoy coffee at Wagayi's retail cafe in Huzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

After previously outsourcing the roasting process, Wagayi brought it in-house this year to gain greater control over quality and costs. It also opened a retail cafe in July, selling freshly prepared coffee, coffee beans, and equipment.

The company has expanded from green coffee bean trading into roasting and retail, extending its operations from sourcing to the finished cup. It is also developing products including coffee beer and coffee liqueur.

Li Zhihua, head of the company, said Wagayi plans to explore more coffee-related consumer offerings. The company also hopes to attract businesses involved in coffee trading, warehousing, roasting, and training.