In the heart of Vietnam’s coffee-growing region, Daklak, an innovative training program is transforming the lives of local coffee farmers. The “Building Capacity for Producers in Improving Coffee Quality” project, supported by Fairtrade and Fairtrade Coffee Development Plan has been empowering farmers with the skills and knowledge needed to improve the quality of their coffee through effective post-harvest processing techniques. By equipping farmers with the tools they need to meet premium market standards, the project is helping to elevate Vietnam’s coffee industry while contributing to sustainable livelihoods for its producers.
Empowering Farmers with Practical Skills and Knowledge
The goal of the training program was to provide farmers with hands-on learning experiences and expert guidance to improve their coffee processing methods. Over the course of five days, participants were introduced to a wide range of post-harvest techniques, beginning with foundational knowledge on the coffee cherry ripening cycle. This crucial step in coffee production ensures that farmers can harvest cherries at the ideal ripeness, which directly impacts the quality of the final product.
The first two days focused on understanding the ripening stages of coffee cherries and how this affects the coffee’s overall quality. Participants learned how to estimate yields and identify the right harvesting times for their specific farms. On the second day, they explored 16 different coffee processing techniques, working in groups to select the most suitable methods for their needs. This collaborative approach empowered farmers to make informed decisions about their processing strategies and to understand the impact of each method on the final cup quality.
Enhancing Processing Techniques for Better Quality
As the training progressed, the focus shifted to more hands-on practices. Days three and four were dedicated to teaching participants the ins and outs of coffee de-pulping, fermentation control, and drying techniques—critical steps in determining the final flavor profile of coffee. In these sessions, farmers learned how to manage fermentation to prevent mold and optimize drying conditions, which are essential to producing high-quality beans.
One of the most important aspects of the program was the emphasis on advanced techniques, such as fermentation control and flavor optimization. Farmers were not only taught to implement these techniques but were also given the opportunity to engage in real-world case studies and group discussions, where they could refine their skills and troubleshoot common challenges in coffee processing.
Reflecting on Learnings and Preparing for the Future
On the final day, participants had the opportunity to review their learning and create personalized action plans for future harvests. This forward-looking approach helped them to solidify their understanding of the training while identifying the next steps for implementing new techniques on their farms. The hands-on evaluation allowed participants to demonstrate their newly acquired skills, and they received valuable feedback from experts and peers to further refine their techniques.
The program concluded with a final session that summarized the key points, distributed essential resources, and offered a Q&A session to ensure participants felt confident about applying their knowledge in real-world settings.
Transforming Lives and Communities
The immediate impact of the training was clear: farmers gained practical skills that could be immediately applied to improve their coffee quality. With a better understanding of how to assess ripening, process coffee effectively, and manage fermentation and drying conditions, participants were prepared to produce higher-quality coffee that would stand out in the premium market.
The long-term benefits of this training are even more profound. By adopting these advanced methods, farmers are not only improving the quality and consistency of their coffee but also increasing their marketability and profitability. Furthermore, the ripple effect of this training is significant, as farmers who participated are now sharing their knowledge with others in their communities. This creates a network of skilled coffee producers who can collaborate and learn from one another, raising the standards of coffee production across Daklak and beyond.
Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
Despite the success of the program, the path forward is not without challenges. Many farmers face difficulties such as inconsistent resources, limited infrastructure, and resistance to adopting new techniques. The volatility of coffee prices in recent years has also made some farmers hesitant to invest in more resource-intensive practices. However, the training program has created a valuable opportunity to address these challenges by providing farmers with the tools and knowledge to improve their practices and increase profitability in the long term.
By empowering farmers to adopt modern coffee processing methods, the program is helping them to differentiate their products in the market. Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the adoption of best practices, the Daklak coffee farming community is poised to strengthen the local coffee industry and build a more resilient, sustainable future.
Looking to the Future
In the coming years, Fairtrade’s “Building Capacity for Producers” program will continue to provide support to farmers and cooperatives as they work toward producing high-quality coffee that can compete in international markets, including the prestigious Vietnam Amazing Cup competition in 2025. The impact of this initiative extends beyond individual farmers, as it helps to build a more sustainable and competitive coffee industry that benefits entire communities.
As the program continues to evolve, Fairtrade and CDP are committed to providing ongoing support to farmers, helping them to build resilient livelihoods and foster long-term success. The partnership between these organizations is a testament to the power of collaboration in creating positive change and transforming the lives of coffee farmers in Vietnam.
Testimonials from Participants
The success of the training is best captured in the words of the participants themselves. Nguyen Thi Le Thuy, a farmer from the Eakiet Fair Agriculture Service Cooperative, shared her gratitude: “The training provided me with invaluable knowledge that has boosted my confidence in processing coffee to a higher standard. I am now confident that, by applying what I’ve learned, my coffee will meet specialty coffee criteria. A big thank you to NAPP and the CDP project for this excellent and practical course.”
Similarly, Doan Thi Uyen, a young farmer from the Eatu Fair Services and Agricultural Co-operative, expressed how the training has empowered her: “As a young female farmer, this training has been a game-changer for me. I’ve gained essential skills and knowledge that have empowered me to improve the quality of my coffee. I feel more confident in my ability to produce specialty coffee and contribute to the industry. Thank you to NAPP and the CDP project for providing such a hands-on, impactful course!”
Conclusion
The Building Capacity for Producers in Improving Coffee Quality project exemplifies the positive impact of education and skill development in the coffee sector. Through the collaborative efforts of Fairtrade, CDP, and their partners, farmers in Daklak are now better equipped to face the challenges of the coffee industry and produce coffee that meets the highest standards. With continued support, these farmers will continue to thrive and contribute to the growth of a more sustainable, equitable coffee industry.
