Report Highlights:
Colombian coffee production is expected to increase 450,000 bags in the October-September 2004/2005 commercial year to reach 11.5 million bags. Production of 11.6 million bags is forecast for the following year. Production increases are due to improvements in international prices. Colombian exports are projected to reach 10.4 million bags during the 2004/2005 year. The Colombian government is pursuing country of origin certification for Colombian coffee worldwide and is expanding exports of specialty coffees.
Executive Summary
Colombia’s coffee production is projected to reach 11.5 million bags (60 Kg) at the end of marketing year 2004/05, which is 450,000 bags (60 Kg) higher that a year before. The trend in coffee production is to improve productivity and quality in the main growing areas, while reducing production in marginal areas.The higher world prices have resulted in increased productivity by allowing growers to afford a more intensive use of inputs and bettermanagement.
The Colombian Government has made major efforts to promote country of origin certification for Colombian coffee in the International Coffee Organization and in the bilateral free trade negotiations currently taking place with the U.S. The goal is to differentiate Colombian coffee and gain a premium price in the market place.
Colombian coffee exports are expected to increase to 10.42 million bags (60 Kg).While exact figures are not available, local contacts report that the share of specialty coffees (which includes organic and coffee identified by origin) is increasing significantly.