Expanding Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee in the EU

Getting Serious About Supply

Expanding Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee in the EU Windward Commodities 30th June 2022

7.4. Yielding Results It is broadly acknowledged that the average number of boxes per acre producer is between 20 – 30, yet to be sustainable farmers need to produce 65-70 at a minimum. FAO’s analysis paints a similar picture - whilst yields decline, the cost of farming is increasing, with the price of fertiliser tripling, and other inputs are likely to continue to rise sharply given the conflict in Ukraine and post-covid cost of logistics. Farmers require significant technical assistance tailored to their requirements. This will include climate smart farming techniques and optimum varietals, auditing and tending to trees, investing in appropriate fertilisers or locally

produced manure/ alternatives, following sustainable and Global Gap processes where possible, and intercropping and planting cash crops as needed. Similarly keeping records of inputs and cost of production and receiving support with funding over time. Part of the problem is that there yields and profitability are held down on women-owned or managed farms. Buyers care that coffee production offers equitable participation for men and women in terms of technical assistance, access to finance, FGP and income and value-add opportunities where possible. It is widely known that gender inequity is a pervasive problem in Jamaica. Feedback from

a recent JAWIC survey of 67 women 94% found coffee insufficient to meet family needs, 69% do not have training in good practices and 75% receive a low farm gate price. None have received support from national agencies. JAWIC, primarily funded through Canadian funds, are starting small and building know how and space to create their own coffees. This is through a programme called Higher Ground with links to market through industry partners IAWC and CQI. Raising women up in coffee is excellent for individuals, communities, the industry and for the JBM brand moving forwards.

42 | Time to Wake Up and ‘Cup’ the Coffee