COSTA RICA
Officials in Costa Rica are trying to end a 30-year ban on robusta production in order to combat climate change and improve farm incomes.
The Costa Rica Ministry of Agriculture is hoping to reverse the policy that went into effect in 1988. Officials at the time urged farmers to plant arabica trees for its market potential. The effort was, in part, successful as Costa Rica is now known for its quality arabica coffees.
The move to robusta is not assured, according to published reports. On one side are arabica defenders who want to protect the quality brand. On the other are robusta promoters who are looking to increase farmers’ income and guard against climate change, pests and disease that could decimate the industry.