AIPEP

AIPEP, the Associacion Integral de Productores Ecologicos de Pumiri, is a primary-level producer cooperative with approximately 64 members, located in Pumiri, province of Caranavi, Bolivia. The founding members have worked hard to construct impressive internal systems for excellent organic production and quality control, as well as solid mechanisms for assuring participation and administrative oversight by the members.

AIPEP leaders hope to incorporate surrounding farmers to the cooperative but for now are focusing on improving yields and securing markets. Nonetheless, the organiztion shows great potential for growth. AIPEP has been certified by IMO Control since 2002, but for years had been unable to export directly, nor be adequately compensated for their organic investment.

In spring 2006, Cooperative Coffees participated in an extensive tour of Bolivia. Out of that impressive visit came Cooperative Coffees first contracts of Bolivian Fair Trade and organic coffee which helped AIPEP eventually achieve FLO certification and expand their market options. We have continued to purchase coffee from AIPEP every year since.

Asociacion Integral de Productores Ecológicos de Pumiri

Profile



Varietals Grown:

  • 50% Catuai
  • 20% Mundo Novo
  • 15% Typica
  • 10% Castillo
  • 5% Other

Social Premium Investment: 2019 Crop Year Fair Trade Certification guarantees 20 cents/lb of the price paid a producer organization is set aside as a social premium. How this money is invested is a decision taken collectively by the general assembly of members at the end of each harvest. Below is a break down of how producers in this organization chose to spend their fair trade premium.

60%
Improve Yields Purchase materials for member nurseries Purchase llama manure for organic fertilizer
20%
Community Development Support for local school in purchase of materials for upkeep of schoolhouse. Purchase materials for intercolegial games.
15%
Healthcare support Dentistry care for members and children of members