I am concerned at the present crisis in the international trade in coffee and the consequent difficulties arising in the incomes of coffee producers and the problems being experienced in such areas as central Ethiopia.
At last month's General Affairs and External Relations Council on 18 and 19 November, Ministers had an exchange of views on the crisis in the international trade in coffee. The Council expressed concern about the current situation. While recognising that there are no quick, short-term solutions it was agreed that initiatives need to be taken and that the issue needs to be looked at in a broader context with a view to achieving sustainable development. The Commission intends to come forward with ideas to address the situation of commodities in general.