In a landmark move during the Specialty Coffee Association's (SCA) prominent North American trade event, top executives from both the SCA and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) formalized a collaborative agreement. This pact focuses on integrating the SCA’s newly developed Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) system into FNC operations, marking a significant stride toward global coffee evaluation standards.

This strategic alliance unites the largest coffee industry trade body with one of the world's most influential producer groups, representing over half a million smallholder farmers. The CVA, introduced in late 2024 after five years of development, aims to replace traditional cupping forms by offering a more comprehensive approach to assessing coffee quality. Although opinions among professional cuppers vary regarding its practicality, the collaboration with FNC could catalyze widespread adoption.

The initial phase of this partnership will concentrate on embedding CVA methodologies within existing FNC frameworks. This includes training specialized teams, enhancing data collection at origin points, and exploring broader applications across Colombia's coffee sector. The SCA will provide technical expertise, tailored training programs, and customized software solutions to facilitate seamless integration.

Beyond operational enhancements, the agreement envisions sharing valuable insights derived from CVA assessments. These insights aim to educate producers about shifting market trends and consumer preferences, empowering them to adapt and thrive. As highlighted in an official statement, the ultimate goal is to ensure that these evaluations directly benefit coffee-growing communities.

Germán Bahamón, CEO of the FNC, emphasized the potential of this partnership in elevating Colombian coffee growers' recognition and aligning production with evolving market demands. He underscored the importance of embracing innovative tools like the CVA to reward the excellence and diversity of Colombian coffees.

This announcement follows another significant development where the SCA assumed control of the Q program, previously managed by the Coffee Quality Institute. Under its new iteration, referred to as Evolved Q, the CVA will play a pivotal role in reshaping coffee quality education and certification globally.

Through this collaboration, the SCA and FNC aim not only to refine coffee evaluation processes but also to enhance the livelihoods of countless coffee farmers. By leveraging cutting-edge methodologies and fostering knowledge exchange, they are paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous coffee industry worldwide.