Coffee is one of the world’s most beloved beverages, a necessity in many people’s diets and an integral component of many people’s morning or afternoon rituals. Of all of the many different varieties available, Cuban coffee stands out due to being dark and strong due to use of dark brown demerara sugar sweetened beverages which give a thick, rich beverage with beautiful crema lining the top surface.

Cuban farmers have been working hard to improve the sustainability and quality of their coffee in order to maintain its high standard. One such initiative they have participated in is Lavazza’s project launched in 2018 that currently involves 249 producers from Santiago and Granma provinces, and seeks to enhance overall quality, commercial viability and women/youth empowerment through forest preservation, improved agricultural practices and gender equity programs.

The program has brought many changes to coffee farming. Its implementation has increased productivity, improved the quality of coffee production, helped farmers diversify production methods and preserved natural forests while encouraging biodiversity. Yolani Carrasana Valdez’s farm now produces six tonnes annually – providing income to his family.

As this initiative continues to flourish and develop, its goal is for more and more farmers to benefit. Furthermore, the hope is that it can contribute towards bettering both social and economic situations across the nation.

Future expectations call for Cuba to produce more coffee due to rising global demand and, specifically, in places such as the US where there is a significant market.

Cuban coffee production will benefit greatly from this step as well as providing local people with more employment opportunities – thus strengthening Cuba’s economy overall.

Cuban coffee continues to improve in quality, making it an attractive product to purchase. Grown in an ideal tropical climate and stunning Escambray mountain environment, its beans are sustainably farmed using no chemical fertilisers and shade grown for ecosystem protection. Plus, its fair trade certification ensures its production ethically while the farmers receive fair compensation for their work.