El Salvador’s high-altitude coffee culture took center stage at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome during the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum. Held on October 14–15 as part of the World Food Forum, the event served as a strategic platform for the Salvadoran Coffee Institute (ISC) to showcase the nation’s finest beans to top international investors, government officials, and key development partners.
Attendees participated in exclusive tasting sessions featuring Pacamara and Bourbon, two signature Salvadoran varieties renowned globally for their complex cup profiles and premium quality. Beyond offering a sensory experience, the tastings offered a meaningful look into the heritage and resilience of local farming communities. “More than a gastronomic experience, the tasting became a window into the work, dedication, and history of Salvadoran coffee-farming families,”noted the ISC.
The international showcase aligns with a robust economic rebound for the sector back home. According to the Central Reserve Bank (BCR), El Salvador’s coffee exports generated $175.96 million between January and August—a 17.6% surge in revenue and a 5.1% increase in volume (538,600 quintals shipped). The average export price climbed to $326.7 per quintal, reflecting strong international demand for the country’s high-end specialty harvests.
By fostering direct connections with global buyers, El Salvador aims to mobilize crucial funding toward building a more competitive and climate-resilient coffee industry. Backed by strategic allies like the FAO, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and Italian Cooperation, the country is actively leveraging its specialty varieties to drive long-term sustainable growth across its agricultural landscape.