ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC-CONDITIONS OF ORGANIC COFFEE PRODUCTION IN LATIN-AMERICA AND PAPUA-NEW-GUINEA

Prospects and limitations of organic coffee growing are described unde r the presently increasing demand for this produce in Europe and North America. In 1991 the consumption of organic coffee, certified accordi ng to US-statutes was equivalent to 0.18 % of the total coffee market in the western world (2.9 mio t green coffee). In the most important E uropean countries this market is expected to rise to a trade volume of at least 4400 t in 1995. Agronomic limitations of organic coffee prod uction mainly relate to balanced nutrient supply. While low yielding p lantations may cover their nitrogen requirements through leguminous sh ade trees, systems of high production intensity must add organic ferti lizer, preferably compost materials. Preparation and transport of such materials - if available in required quantities - may render organic plantations uneconomic. Examples for the crucial impact of site and ma nagement factors on the severity of pests and diseases like the coffee berry borer (Hypothenemus hampei) and coffee rust (Hemileia vastatrix ) are given. The importance of organic coffee growers' and marketing o rganizations for long term profitability and sustainability of such co ffee production systems is stressed. Chances for organic coffee cultiv ation as an alternative to coca growing in Latin America are discussed .