JUMARP - Asociación de Productores Cafetaleros Juan Marco El Palto

The Asociación de Productores Cafetaleros Juan Marco El Palto (or JUMARP) is located in the Amazonian Andes of northern Peru. Although coffee was introduced to the region in the 1950’s, production practices then relied heavily on agrochemicals. The organization was formed by 35 small farmers in 2003 to ensure a sustainable livelihood through coffee production and commercialization in harmony with the rain forest. When they achieved Fair Trade certification, they realized coffee exports could also be a vehicle to promote ethical behavior and community development. With Fair Trade premiums, JUMARP has focused on improving the quality of life in their community by educating members and promoting the sustainable use of resources. Today, JUMARP consists of 188 active members, all of whom produce organic and Fair Trade Certified coffee. To ensure democratic decision-making, JUMARP focuses on channeling market knowledge toward producers so they can make informed and participatory decisions. Although they operate in a region with a long history of female disenfranchisement, 40 of the organization’s member families are headed by women and they have had continual representation on their Board of Directors.