Promoting generational transition in the Honduran coffee industry through CAFEXPO
The German Retailers’ Working Group’s project “Towards Decent Incomes in the Coffee Sector” provided support to the Honduran Coffee Institute (IHCAFE) at CAFEXPO 2026, where efforts were made to boost the competitiveness of Honduran coffee based on the pillars of generational renewal, climate resilience and technological innovation. During the event, a panel was held with young coffee producers on generational succession, highlighting the importance of involving new generations in the future of coffee in Honduras.
In a key step towards sustainability in the coffee sector, the project ‘Towards Decent Incomes in the Coffee Sector’ by the German Retailers’ Working Group supported the Honduran Coffee Institute (IHCAFE) at CAFEXPO. The conference is one of the most important events for the coffee value chain in Honduras and took place on 20 and 21 March 2026 in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. The event facilitated direct contact between producers and buyers, positioning the bean as a speciality product with guaranteed traceability
During the event, a panel was held with young coffee producers on generational succession, highlighting the importance of involving new generations in the future of coffee in Honduras.
The session addressed key topics such as innovation, the use of technology, and the need to ensure decent incomes—key factors for young people to see coffee farming as a real opportunity for development.
Generational renewal in Honduran coffee farming is not limited to the transfer of land; rather, it represents an evolution of production systems. This perspective was central to the presentations by Alba Rosa Claros and Martha Ercilia Argueta, two APROCOMSA producers, during the Generational Renewal Forum:
I feel that generational renewal is the true proof that coffee dignifies our lives; my children have always been my greatest motivation and seeing that they now have the tools to transform coffee farming—and that it is the path to achieving their dreams—is my greatest joy. It is also how we project the legacy of the Claros family into the future. (Alba Rosa Claros, second-generation producer, APROCOMSA)
I represent the evolution of coffee-growing tradition in Marcala. My journey connects my childhood experiences in the coffee fields with technical specialization in quality control. Today, my vision is to professionalize my parents’ legacy through coffee cupping, ensuring that the hard work in the field reaches demanding specialty markets. I am proof that coffee farming is a space for professional growth, and my goal is to create better opportunities for our communities. (Martha Ercilia Argueta, third-generation producer, APROCOMSA)
Among the main conclusions, it was highlighted that generational renewal requires coordinated efforts to strengthen capacities, improve market access, and promote more profitable production models. It was also emphasized that ensuring living incomes is essential to motivate young people to remain in and innovate within the rural sector.
The panel delivered a clear message: the future of Honduran coffee depends on the opportunities created today for the next generations.