Colombia – Organic

ASOANEI is an Association of Indigenous and small farmer Agro-ecological Producers from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Serrania del Perija regions. The group was founded in 1996 with the purpose of developing organic farming programs while promoting the preservation of indigenous and peasant cultures in this north-eastern region of Colombia.

ASOANEI is made up of more than 600 indigenous families belonging to four very distinct ethnic groups. These are the Arhuacos, the Koguis, the Wiwas and the Kankuamos, along with small-scale local farmers who share a holistic view of forests, rivers, mountains and animal protection through the implementation of sustainable initiatives. Through the conservation and care of natural resources, they seek to improve their living conditions and respect their ancestral heritage.

ASOANEI has a strategic plan for the future which incorporates social, environmental and cultural aspects. To implement it, the Association works with several regional and national entities, and has established agreements and projects that enable them to support indigenous families and peasant communities of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Serrania del Perija.
ANEI coffee is in compliance with strict organic agricultural practices under USDA NOP, EU and JAS standards implemented by Ecocert, As mentioned in a recent Transfair USA report, ASOANEI also meets Fair Trade standards and certification criteria.