Puerto Rico Launches Major Coffee Tree Distribution to Revitalize Local Industry

Caguas, Puerto Rico — In a bold move to strengthen Puerto Rico’s coffee industry, the Department of Agriculture, in partnership with Puerto Rico Coffee Roasters (PRCR), has begun distributing 150,000 coffee trees to farmers across the island. The initiative aims to boost local production, create seasonal jobs, and reinforce food security through one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic crops.

The first delivery took place this past Friday at the Regional Office of Agriculture in Caguas, where 9,450 trees were handed out to 15 farmers. This marks the beginning of a broader campaign to support bonafide coffee growers and any farmer who has requested trees through the Department’s regional offices.

“This collaboration reaffirms our commitment to coffee farmers and to an industry that represents our history, culture, and economy,” said Secretary of Agriculture Josué E. Rivera. “We continue to develop initiatives across all agricultural regions so that Puerto Rican coffee can once again occupy the place it deserves.”

The goal of the program is to plant 150 new rows of coffee trees, contributing significantly to the island’s agricultural output. In addition to increasing production, the initiative is expected to generate seasonal employment and promote sustainable farming practices.

PRCR, the only USDA APHIS-certified nursery in Puerto Rico since 2017, supplied the trees using advanced technologies such as the Ellepot system and biodegradable substrates. These methods ensure that the plants are well-adapted to local conditions and offer full traceability.

“Planting coffee is a decision made today for tomorrow,” said agronomist José D. Morales Aymat, senior manager of agricultural affairs at PRCR. “If we want fruit in two or three years, if we want to strengthen the economy in our fields and mountains, then we must act now. The future of Puerto Rican coffee starts today.”

This latest effort builds on previous actions taken by the Department of Agriculture. Earlier in March, the agency distributed 14,000 coffee trees in the regions of San Germán and Lares, backed by an $18,900 incentive. These ongoing efforts reflect a sustained public policy aimed at revitalizing coffee cultivation across the island.