Colombia expects record production in 2nd half

june 30

Coffee production in Colombia has again hit their marks. So far this year, production has recorded historical volumes, which have satisfied the general manager of the National Federation of Coffee Growers, Genero Luis Muñoz Ortega. \”The good news is to inform the world that despite the crisis of the past, coffee consumption is growing sustainably on average 2% annually.\”

The phenomenon of specialty coffees, as well as the design of the Juan Valdez trademark, which is close to completing 50 years of history, no doubt are factors that, in recent years has made the placement of Colombian coffee in the domestic and international markets grow at a speed unmatched, he said, the country of 7% and 5% overseas.

The Federation said the international prices are also in favor of the activity arriving today to values of U.S. $ 2.4 per pound of Colombian coffee. \”That helps a lot to alleviate the time of crisis last year when it showed unexpected losses.\”

For the Federation, the first half of 2010 was marked by significant recovery of more than 80% compared to last year, because, comparing, for example, the month of May, the production volume has reached the milestone of 622 000 bags , ie 17% more than in 2009.

Ortega said the unrest of the Federation is related to the stability of the dollar. However, hopes are that the investment will strengthen the Colombian peso, as it is estimated that in 2015, investments reach U.S. $ 65 billion. Even so, the Federation \”welcomes\” the announcement by the Minister of Finance of fiscal rule.

\”Formation of coffee\” in the life of President-elect of Colombia, Juan Manual Santos, is a point in favor for the Federation, because not only has worked with the Federation, but also, Santos represented growers in the International Coffee Organisation and made part of the national committee as Foreign Minister and as Minister of Finance. Everything seems to indicate, according to Ortega, who is a person with initiative, willing to offer government support to the Federation.