Mexican Fairtrade Organic Chiapas SHG

Grown in the lush highlands of Yajalón, Chiapas, Mexico, lies a coffee born from a harmonious blend of tradition, community, and sustainable innovation. At an altitude ranging from 560 to 1600 meters above sea level, the coffee farms of Yajalón benefit from the region’s optimal climate and fertile soils, yielding beans of unparalleled quality. Since the late 19th century, coffee farming has been more than just an industry here; it’s a way of life deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of the local Tseltal and Ch’ol communities.

Among the custodians of this rich coffee heritage is Yaxcoffee, a beacon of social and environmental stewardship. Comprising 1,536 small-scale farmers, including 1,092 men and 488 women, Yaxcoffee stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Ch’ol and Tseltal peoples. Their commitment to organic farming practices not only preserves the integrity of the land but also safeguards centuries-old traditions against the tide of modernisation.

In recent years, the landscape of coffee production in Chiapas has undergone a transformative shift, propelled by initiatives aimed at empowering local farmers and enhancing the quality of their produce. Spearheading this movement is LDC Mexico, partnering with international roasters to introduce innovative techniques such as drying beds. These beds, introduced in 2021, represent more than just a technological advancement; they symbolise a collaborative effort to elevate the entire coffee value chain, from seed to cup.