Coffee production in the Azores is economic asset that needs to be boosted, says João Ponte
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry highlighted on the island of Terceira the good natural conditions and the growing interest of producers for subtropical production in the Azores, pointing out the example of coffee as an economic asset that must be boosted.
“We are the only region in Europe that has conditions for the production of coffee and pineapple, among other subtropical productions, which is an opportunity that should be bring economic advantage for producers, hence the support provided by the Regional to this project,” said João Ponte. The government official spoke on the sidelines of a visit to the premises of the Association of Azorean Coffee Producers (APCA) in Angra do Heroísmo.
The Regional Secretary stressed that APCA has been working in recent years to attract new members and encourage the emergence of more producers. In this regard, he highlighted the increase in coffee production and interest shown by several entities in establishing strategic partnerships in order to reinforce the knowledge of new practices and productive methods, with a view to enhancing the quality of this product.
"I believe that conditions are in place for the further growth of this crop in the Azores in coming years, with economic gains for producers," said João Ponte. According to him, coffee production in the Azores is distinguished by its uniqueness, “as it is associated with an image of sustainability and this, of course, has to be transformed into added value for producers."
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry stressed that the support granted to APCA, such as the provision of facilities or the financing of equipment for the processing of coffee, has given a new impetus to this subtropical agricultural production.