A significant investment of US$10 million has been pledged by the global coffee industry to boost coffee breeding and seed programs. This initiative, led by World Coffee Research (WCR) and supported by over 190 member companies from 29 countries, aims to enhance agricultural research and development (R&D) for coffee. The focus is on improving productivity for farmers, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring diverse options for consumers.
• WCR highlights a yearly shortfall of US$452 million in coffee R&D funding.
• Two new global coffee breeding networks for Arabica and Robusta have been established, involving 11 producing countries.
• These networks aim to develop 100 improved Arabica varieties by 2030, with Robusta varieties to follow.
• Recent commitments include US$5.4 million from USAID and €1.2 million from GIZ to support coffee R&D and Ethiopian breeding programs.
This investment is crucial for the future of coffee, addressing challenges like climate change, pests, and diseases. By enhancing R&D, the industry seeks to secure stable coffee supplies and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers worldwide.
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