Building a Sustainable Coffee Future, Together: IWCA at the XXVI Latin American Coffee Growing Symposium
From July 15–18, 2025, more than 550 coffee professionals from over 15 countries gathered in San Salvador, El Salvador, for the XXVI Latin American Coffee Growing Symposium—a major regional forum convened by PROMECAFE to advance knowledge, innovation, and collaboration across the coffee value chain.
The Symposium served as a powerful reminder of the critical role that dialogue, research, and regional cooperation play in building a resilient and sustainable coffee sector. Technical field tours, expert panels, and keynote presentations covered essential topics including:
Climate-resilient farming practices
Genetic innovation and quality
Market opportunities for differentiated coffees
EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) compliance
Public policy and sustainable development frameworks
IWCA was proud to be represented by Blanca Castro, IWCA Global Executive Director, who joined a distinguished panel to speak about the importance of gender inclusion in shaping the future of coffee. In her remarks, Blanca emphasized that sustainability is not just about practices—it's about people.
“Women are driving innovation and resilience in every part of the coffee value chain. When we support their leadership and visibility, we strengthen entire communities and create a more inclusive and viable future for coffee.” – Blanca Castro, IWCA
Blanca’s participation highlighted IWCA’s global mission to empower women in coffee through leadership development, market access, and community-based impact projects. Her presence also underscored the importance of bringing women’s voices to the table in high-level technical and policy discussions shaping the future of our sector.
As the coffee sector navigates increasing complexity—climate change, market volatility, regulatory shifts—IWCA remains committed to regional and global collaboration that centers equity, innovation, and local leadership.
We extend our gratitude to PROMECAFE and the Instituto Salvadoreño del Café (ISC) for creating a space where technical excellence and inclusive dialogue came together to build momentum for real impact.
Learn more about the event: https://simposiocaficultura.promecafe.net