Jamaica in the Arabica Coffee Global Value Chain

Specialty coffee represents a high value and growing niche market based almost exclusively on one type of coffee bean, Arabica coffee. Producers of high value coffee are able to capture higher prices on the international market and overcome economies of scale by focusing on high-value markets. Jamaica has historically been successful in the specialty coffee market, consistently earning the highest unit price globally. However, supply disruptions and the rise of new competitors threaten its position. This report uses the global value chain framework to map Jamaica’s current participation in the Arabica coffee industry and identify ways to increase SMEs participation in the industry.

Duke Scholars

Author Karina Fernandez-Stark  

Author Penny Bamber