Guerrero’s coffee growers are anticipating a promising future, bolstered by organizational efforts and emerging international markets. As reported by El Coordinador de los Comisariados Ejidales y Comunales in Guerrero, local coffee producers have successfully exported their product to 12 different countries. This uptick in export activity signals a growing recognition of Guerrero’s coffee quality.
Challenges Overcome
Despite facing numerous challenges in recent years, including fluctuating prices and pest infestations, Guerrero’s coffee sector is on the rebound. The lack of supportive public policies has made it difficult for producers, but recent trends suggest that change is on the horizon.
Shifts in Global Consumption
- International coffee organizations are forecasting a significant increase in coffee consumption.
- China, historically a low coffee consumer, is now experiencing a surge in coffee demand.
The increased popularity of coffee in China is noteworthy. In fact, a local agrarian leader humorously suggested converting the Yellow River into a coffee river, reflecting the newfound enthusiasm for coffee consumption.
Climate Factors and Production Goals
Climate phenomena, such as frost, droughts, and tropical storms, are impacting coffee production worldwide. Brazil and Vietnam, major coffee producers, are also feeling the effects. Meanwhile, the trend away from soluble coffee is yielding a positive outcome for the consumption of high-quality Arabica coffee from Guerrero.
Focus on Productivity
Guerrero coffee farmers are urged to enhance productivity. For example, some local producers are achieving significantly higher yields compared to their peers. Recent conversations revealed:
- Most producers reported an average yield of half a kilogram per plant.
- Some leaders, like Don Pedro Adame Reina from Río Verde, yield up to five kilograms per plant.
- Producers from Puente Rey are even reportedly harvesting up to 15 kilograms per plant.
Improving yields could increase gross monthly income. If a farmer manages to harvest ten tons from one hectare, they could earn around 30,000 pesos monthly, competitive with skilled professions.
Government Support and Market Conditions
Currently, government support is limited. There has only been a minor annual subsidy of 7,300 pesos for coffee producers. This amount does not vary with the size of the property, which does not effectively cater to the diverse needs of growers.
Mexico produces about four million sacks of coffee annually, primarily Arabica, much of which is exported to Europe and the United States. Unfortunately, lower-quality Robusta beans are used to meet export demand for soluble coffee products.
Consumer Awareness
Local leaders encourage consumers to choose high-quality, shade-grown coffee over inferior options. The differences in price are stark, with premium beans costing only 2.50 pesos per cup at farm prices. In contrast, coffee from commercial outlets can sell for around 40 pesos per cup, highlighting the potential savings.
Finally, ongoing issues with land ownership and agricultural policies need urgent attention. The privatization of more than four million hectares has adversely affected social property ownership, revealing the complexities of agricultural reform.
As Guerrero’s coffee growers navigate these challenges, the future seems bright with the right support and growing global demand. Empowering local producers and increasing consumer education can lead to a revitalization of the coffee industry in the region.
