State to trace coffee against deforestation

KILIMANJARO:THE Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB) has initiated a re-registration programme for all coffee farmers and their farms to enhance traceability and ensure that the crop production adheres to deforestation-free practices.

The initiative follows the European Union (EU) new regulation prohibiting the import or export of agricultural products produced on deforested land to its member countries.

TCB Director General (DG) Mr Primus Kimaryo told reporters over the weekend during a presser that the board will comply with the EU regulations to demonstrate the country’s commitment to the sustainable production of coffee.

“The regulations prohibit the importation or exportation of agricultural products produced on deforested land to EU member countries.

“Coffee that does not comply with the new regulations will be banned from entering European markets after next June,” Mr Kimaryo said.

The deforestation regulations were issued last May and came into force in June, 2023.

“The EU market is crucial for coffee farmers and the country’s economic well-being, not only because of our long-standing trading relationships, but also because it represents over 50 per cent of our coffee exports,” he said and added: “Therefore, we will comply with the regulations to maintain this market and the associated benefits.”

Regarding the re-registration programme, Mr Kimaryo said that TCB will oversee the re-registration of all coffee farmers.

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Additionally, will develop a comprehensive database featuring detailed geographic mapping of coffee farms to ensure accurate record-keeping, traceability and verification of deforestation-free practices.

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a legislative measure introduced by the EU to address and combat deforestation and forest degradation linked to supply chains of products imported into the EU.

The EUDR aims to prevent products associated with deforestation and forest degradation from entering the EU market.

This regulation is part of the EU’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability and combating climate change. The regulation covers a range of commodities linked to deforestation, including coffee, cocoa, palm oil, soy and timber, among others.

The EUDR is part of the EU’s broader Green Deal and sustainability agenda, which aims to align trade practices with environmental and climate goals.

The regulation reflects growing global concerns about the impact of agricultural expansion on forests and biodiversity.

The country cultivates coffee in 17 regions, mainly in Kilimanjaro, Mbeya, Kagera and Ruvuma.

The coffee is cultivated on more than 200,000 acres and benefits people in more than 400,000 households.