– Coffee became integral to Honduras’ economy, with high yields and suitability for high-altitude growth attracting investment from hacendados.
– By the early 1900s, Honduras emerged as a leading global coffee exporter, with annual exports exceeding 12 million pounds.
– Hurricane Mitch in 1998 devastated the Honduran coffee industry, causing a significant drop in production and pushing many to resort to smuggling to cope with losses.
– Recovery efforts, including the establishment of IHCAFE, focused on improving coffee quality, supporting small-scale farmers, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
– Honduras’ unique climate and geography, characterized by elevated altitudes, volcanic soil, and tropical climate, contribute to the production of high-quality Arabica coffee beans, establishing the country as a premier coffee-growing destination.