Regional Agreement
Table of Contents
Agriculture ministers from Central American countries and the Dominican Republic have agreed to prioritize a regional program to counter the devastating fungus known as “Roya” (coffee leaf rust), which is ravaging coffee crops across the region.
Planned Actions
The program will coordinate the efforts of multiple government agencies. It may also seek support from international organizations. The plan is expected to be approved no later than the third week of March.
Current Impact
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Coffee leaf rust has already affected more than 50% of the region’s coffee-growing area, according to ministers who met Monday and Tuesday in San José, Costa Rica.
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Data from the Coffee Technology Development and Modernization Cooperation Program estimates 20% production losses in the 2012/2013 harvest, with total damages reaching about 500 million USD.
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The Regional International Plant Health Organization has reported outbreaks of Roya in Mexico and Colombia.
Country Focus: Costa Rica
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Gloria Abraham, Costa Rica’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock and current chair of the Central American Agriculture Council, reported that 64% of Costa Rica’s coffee farms are affected.
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Total affected area: 60,441 hectares
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26.3% suffering severe damage
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48% showing moderate damage
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25.6% with mild infection
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