SOFTS-Arabica coffee hits 2-1/2 month peak, sugar also up

LONDON, Aug 20 (Reuters) - Arabica coffee futures on ICE rose on Wednesday to a 2-1/2 month peak with the market supported by speculative buying against the backdrop of low stocks and the disruption to global trade caused by the imposition of a 50% tariff on U.S. imports from Brazil.

COFFEE

* Arabica coffee futures KCc1 rose 1.6% to $3.6190 per lb by 1340 GMT after setting a 2-1/2 month peak of $3.64.

* The market has been supported by a drop in certified exchange stocks as roasters look to secure alternative supplies following the imposition of a 50% tariff on U.S. imports of Brazilian coffee.

* Dealers noted, however, that exchange stocks had begun to creep up this week, standing at 736,573 bags, as of August 19, up from a recent low of 726,661 bags on August 14. Most of the added coffee is from Honduras with some increase also in Mexican supplies.

* Robusta coffee LRCc2 gained 2.2% to $4,363 a metric ton after hitting a two-month high of $4,370.

SUGAR

* Raw sugar SBc1 rose 1.8% to 16.61 cents per lb.

* Dealers said supportive factors included the recent rise in refining margins, which should boost demand for raws, and sentiment that strong imports into China in July are likely to continue for at least the next couple of months.

White sugar LSUc1 gained 2.2% to $488.10 a ton.

COCOA

* New York cocoa CCc2 fell 1.1% to $8,090 a ton.

* Dealers said there remained concern about dry weather in West Africa while noting isolated showers this week had provided some relief.

* London cocoa LCCc2 lost 0.9% to 5,504 pounds per ton.