The Growing Demand for Certified Coffees and the New EUDR Requirements

Rainforest Alliance Certified Conilon Coffee Plantation

In recent years, the demand for certified coffees has grown substantially, driven by consumers' increasing awareness of sustainable practices and the traceability of the products they consume. Certifications such as Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, and UTZ, among others, have become synonymous with quality, environmental responsibility, and social justice—traits that are increasingly valued in the international market.

The importance of certifications extends beyond merely ensuring the quality of the final product. They guarantee that the entire coffee production process, from harvest to export, adheres to strict sustainability and ethical standards. As a result, producers are encouraged to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices that preserve the environment and promote better working conditions for farmers.

A new regulation that reinforces the importance of traceability and sustainability in the supply chain is the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This legislation, recently implemented, requires that products imported into the European market, including coffee, be free from deforestation and forest degradation in their production chain. Coffee producers who wish to export to Europe must now prove that their production does not contribute to deforestation, adding an additional layer of complexity to certification and traceability.

For coffee exporters, this means that obtaining certifications that demonstrate sustainable practices and compliance with the EUDR is not just a competitive advantage but a necessity for accessing the European market. This new landscape presents challenges but also opportunities for those willing to adapt and invest in sustainability. With the growing popularity of coffee and the increasing market demands, producers and exporters who prioritize certification and compliance with regulations like the EUDR will be better positioned to meet global demands and thrive in the international market.