Regional Government, APAC and Delta Cafés sign protocol for experimentation with new coffee varieties in the Azores - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The Regional Government, the Azorean Coffee Producers' Association (APAC) and Delta Cafés signed today the Protocol for Experimentation with New Coffee Varieties in the Autonomous Region of the Azores at the Sant'Ana Palace in Ponta Delgada. This will further promote the development of coffee production in the Region, speeding up its productivity, quality and economic feasibility.

On the occasion, the President of the Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, praised the "partnership of excellence" that will " contribute to the promotion of high-quality Azorean coffee in the national and global context."

"Our geography is unique, even in regard to other coffee-producing geographical areas. We are in the middle of the North Atlantic. We have this influence, which can be projected as an asset rather than a liability," he added.

The President of the Government praised the "pioneers" and all those who continue the mission of growing coffee in the Region: "our strategic purpose is to ensure quality, distinction and added value."

The agreement formally establishes the commitment of the three entities to implement strategic actions that will contribute to the sustainable development of the coffee production chain in the Azores, through experimentation and selection of new coffee varieties in the Region, thereby increasing productivity and adding value to regional agricultural production.

The protocol will be valid for eight years and will be divided into seven phases, including the planning of experimental studies in the different fields for the introduction of new coffee varieties, training, counselling and provision of technical support to producers.

In October, Delta Cafés announced the launch of the first batch of Azorean coffee. It is now available as an exclusive limited edition in Delta's The Coffee House Experience shops with the aim of promoting Azorean coffee, disseminating knowledge about this crop and responding to the interest in its production.