EFICO – Y 2025 – Communication on Progress

Communication On Progress Year 2025

COMMUNICATION ON PROGRESS YEAR 2025

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

COMMUNICATION ON PROGRESS YEAR 2025

BASED ON THE ENHANCED C O M M U N I C AT I O N O N PROGRESS REQUIRED FOR MEMBERS OF THE UNITED N AT I O N S G L O B A L C O M PA C T

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

OPENING STATEMENT This annual report is based on the Enhanced

•

Build credibility and brand value by

Communication On Progress (COP) report-

showing their commitment to the

ing framework of the United Nations Global

Ten Principles and the Sustainable

Compact (UNGC).

Development Goals.

•

Receive insight, learn and continuously

In 2022, EFICO reported to this framework

improve performance by identifying

already as Early Adopter Member.

gaps, accessing guidance and setting sustainability goals.

The Communication on Progress (COP) is a

•

Compare performance against peers

required public and annual disclosure by busi-

with access to one of the largest sources

ness participants of the UN Global Compact

of free, public and comparable corpo-

- celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2025 -

rate sustainability data.

to stakeholders with the following main objectives:

This report reflects our commitment towards

•

Foster accountability on corporate sus-

the Ten Principles of the UNGC and the

tainability performance to help safeguard

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and

the integrity of the UN Global Compact

reports our progress made in 2025.

initiative; •

•

Promote

continued

learning

and

At EFICO, we encourage this consistent and

help drive corporate sustainability

harmonized way of continuous improvement

performance;

reporting and are convinced the UNGC’s

Enhance stakeholder access to informa-

enhanced platform acts as a strong tool to

tion regarding participants’ implemen-

support sustainability performance advance-

tation of the Ten Principles and contri-

ment and transparency year over year.

bution towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As a global compact signatory since 2003, EFICO is committed to transparently report

The enhanced COP therefore enables par-

its progress and challenges, and share this

ticipating companies of the UN Global

with its partners.

Compact to: •

Measure and demonstrate progress

We welcome feedback and ideas to continue

to stakeholders and the public on the

learning and improving our sustainability

Ten Principles and the Sustainable

journey, together with you.

Development Goals in a consistent and harmonized way.

Our COP report is published on www.unglobalcompact.org and on www.EFICO.com/about/sdg/.

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LOOKING BACK Dear Stakeholders, Partners and Friends of

Honduras and Nicaragua, demonstrating

EFICO,

how fragile logistics remain even in routine seasons. Later in the year, Sumatra

Looking back on 2025, one phrase captures

experienced rare cyclones and flooding,

the year well: advanced navigation. Not

af fec ting

because the challenges were unfamiliar, but

and coffee trees. Together, these events

because the water ran deeper, the winds

reinforced a reality now shared across the

were stronger, and the charts were more

industry: climate disruption is systemic.

communities ,

warehouses ,

complex.

Geopolitics added further crosscurrents.

Across the global coffee sector, volatility

Shifting trade policies and fluctuating tariff

once again was the prevailing condition. For

announcements -particularly involving the

the industry, this was familiar territory -yet

United States and major producing countries

magnified. Green coffee traders throughout

such as Brazil, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, and

the value chain spent much of the year

Colombia, introduced additional uncertainty

reacting, recalibrating, and adapting to

into global trade flows. Coffee continued

constantly shifting currents.

to move, but often less predictable and at higher cost.

A MARKET IN MOTION: VOLATILITY FROM ORIGIN TO DESTINATION

At the same time, coffee producers faced

The start of 2025 was marked by an

re duce d

unprecedented bull run in the NY C Market.

support. The closure of USAID in 2025

Arabica prices opened at 321.55 c/lb and

ended longstanding investments in rural

rose to a February peak of 429.96 c/lb,

infrastructure, coffee facilities, and breeding

before reaching similar levels again later

programs, further tightening conditions at

in the year. The defining challenge was

origin.

international

development

not only elevated prices but the extreme volatility that accompanied them. Sharp and

Together, these dynamics highlighted the

unpredictable swings complicated planning

importance of sound risk management,

for producers, exporters, traders and roasters

diversified sourcing, and strong partnerships

alike. Stability, throughout much of 2025,

in maintaining reliable supply.

was notably absent.

Upstream uncertainty was mirrored by an

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The origin of this market turbulence was

increasingly complex regulatory environ-

set in motion in 2024. Early projections

ment downstream. As the year drew to a

for Brazil’s 2024/25 crop signaled severe

close, the EU postponed implementation

shortfalls due to prolonged drought and

of the Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)

water stress, creating a global deficit outlook.

-now scheduled for December 2026 for

Across Central America, changing weather

larger operators and June 2027 for smaller

patterns delayed harvests by up to six weeks,

businesses. The revised framework also

pushing shipments back one to two months.

introduced a simplified set of rules for

Port congestion and container shortages

downstream operators, including stream-

compounded these delays, particularly in

lined due‑diligence obligations that reduce

Communication On Progress Year 2025

duplicative filings and ease the compliance

Quality Grading Courses to ensure that

burden for smaller businesses, helping to

scores, data, and certifications translate into

limit the impact on SMEs. This sense of “EU

meaningful understanding.

déjà vu” underlined a broader reality: compliance in Europe is a constantly shifting

Collaboration with peers and stakeholders

horizon.

was essential. Delayed shipments, container constraints, and shifting demand patterns

EFICO’S RESPONSE: STAYING RELEVANT,

required constant coordination. Solutions

STAYING RELIABLE

were rarely perfect, but partnership kept

Against this backdrop, EFICO focused on

coffee moving -a reminder that resilience

what we could control -staying true to our

in our sector is built through cooperation

role as a reliable, long-term partner. We

rather than isolation.

invested in our expertise, strengthened preparedness, nurtured partnerships across

This hands-on, end-to-end involvement

the value chain, and supported our teams.

-from supporting producers to delivering green coffee to roasters’ doorsteps, allowed

Across our origin offices and European sales

EFICO to continue providing the quality,

teams, our crew of experts in trade, logistics,

service, and expertise that partners have

finance, legal, quality, and sustainability

relied on for nearly 100 years.

worked closely together to manage risk, secure supply, and maintain continuity in a

CLOSING 2025, LOOKING AHEAD

year where disruption became the norm.

As 2025 draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on a year of remarkable

At the same time, we deepened engagement

achievements. We extend our heartfelt

with partners across the value chain. From

congratulations to our shareholder, NOORD

collecting geolocation data in previously

NATIE, on being named a finalist for the EY

unmapped regions in Africa to hosting origin

“Onderneming van het Jaar ® 2025.” This

trips reconnecting roasters with production

recognition celebrates their outstanding

realities, our approach remained hands-on,

track record, strategic foresight, and

practical, and partnership driven.

entrepreneurial spirit in the logistics sector.

Knowledge-sharing continued to be a key

Alongside NOORD NATIE’s honour, we can

contribution. EFICO participated in trade

proudly reflect on EFICO’s own successes

fairs and sector discussions on EUDR,

in a challenging year for the entire coffee

Fairtrade, and organic coffee, contributed to

industry. Despite unprecedented obstacles,

international media, and welcomed partners

we adapted, persevered, and delivered

into our quality lab and historic cupping

results. The dedication, flexibility, and

room for tastings and dialogue.

seamless collaboration across our teams and partners enabled us to navigate a steep and

Quality remained a shared language. As

complex learning curve.

global coffee evaluation systems evolved, EFICO supported roaster partners through

Thanks to these collective efforts, we

calibration and interpretation, co-hosting

managed to continue sourcing quality coffee

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with diverse flavour profiles, keep supplying

Looking ahead, we know the water

roasters reliably and with the right context,

will remain unpredictable. Yet, with an

and nearly a century into our trading history,

experienced crew, shared guidance, and a

move more coffee than ever before. Achieving

clear sense of direction, EFICO confidently

this in an increasingly severe inverted

moves into 2026. This year also brings a

market -where nearby prices traded above

significant milestone: 100 years of navigating

forward levels, penalizing inventory holding

the global coffee trade -a century built on

and placing sustained pressure on trading,

stable leadership, enduring partnerships,

financing, and execution, highlights EFICO’s

and the determination to steer through the

disciplined approach to risk management

most challenging seas.

and operational continuity. Even amid

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extreme circumstances, this dedication

Together, with steady hands at the helm,

across our team, producing partners,

we look ahead to 2026 as another year

and roasters ensured business continuity

of grow th, resilience, and meaningful

throughout the year.

achievement.

Communication On Progress Year 2025

STATEMENT OF CONTINUED SUPPORT

“

We are pleased to affirm EFICO’s continued support of the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact in the areas of Human Rights, Labour, Environment and Anti-Corruption.

Since 2003, EFICO has been a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact and we remain as committed as ever in the implementation of those principles.

This annual Communication on Progress describes our actions to integrate the Global Compact and its principles into our business strategy, culture and daily operations.

We are committed to sharing the details of our progress through our primary channels of communication and we invite stakeholder feedback.

Sincerely,

Michel Germanès

Philip Van gestel

Managing Director

Executive Chairman

EFICO Group works in support of following 8 SDGs

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS Opening Statement

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Looking Back

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Statement of Continued Support

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Logbook EFICO GROUP 2025 EFICO GROUP | Network of Companies

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Key Facts & Figures 2025

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EFICO | A Passion for Coffee

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Highlights & Insights 2025

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Connecting the Coffee Value Chain Insights into EFICO’s 2025 Sourcing Strategy & Market Trends 24 A Shared Perspective on what truly matters Insights from EFICO’s Double Materiality Assessment

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CUPRIMA | Coffee with an Identity

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Highlights & Insights 2025

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What it truly Means to Source Specialty Coffee A CUPRIMA Perspective - Coffee with an Identity

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EFICO FOUNDATION | Coffee for People,

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People for Coffee Highlights & Insights 2025

54

Overview Current EFICO FOUNDATION Projects

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Building on Phase 1 of the EFICO FOUNDATION Flagship Project ‘Kilimanjaro Water & Food for All’ One Year of Phase 2: Impacts & Results

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SEABRIDGE LOGISTICS | Green Coffee Logistics

66

Milestones & Metrics

67

Looking Ahead

68

Acknowledgement

71

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THE 10 UNITED NATIONS GLOBAL COMPACT PRINCIPLES

At EFICO we integrate the ten United Nations Global Compact principles in our strategies and actions: Additionally, we support the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, following the Commodity Sector Guidance issued by the Swiss Government in November 2018.

HUMAN RIGHTS - PRINCIPLES BASED ON THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION §1

Businesses should support and respect the protection of international proclaimed human rights

§2 Businesses should ensure that they are not complicit in human rights abuses LABOUR - PRINCIPLES RESULTING FROM THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION’S DECLARATION §3 Businesses should uphold the freedom of association and recognize effectively the right to collective bargaining §4 Elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour §5 Effective abolition of child labour §6 Elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation ENVIRONMENT - PRINCIPLES DERIVED FROM THE RIO DECLARATION PRINCIPLES §7 Businesses should support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges §8 Undertake initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility §9 Encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally-friendly technologies ANTI-CORRUPTION - PRINCIPLE BASED ON THE UN CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION §10 Businesses should work against corruption in all its forms including extortion and bribery 12

Communication On Progress Year 2025

THE 17 UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS The Millenium Development Goals were transformed into the post2015 Sustainable Development Goals. The UN Member States agreed on the proposed 17 goals at the UN Summit in September 2015; the new framework came into effect as from January 2016. These new goals give an overview on how to tackle the world’s most pressing problems, including poverty, inequality and environmental destruction:

End poverty in all its forms everywhere

Reduce inequality within and among countries

End

hunger,

achieve

food

security

and improved nutrition and promote

Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

sustainable agriculture Ensure sustainable consumption and Ensure

healthy

lives

and

promote

production patterns

well-being for all at all ages Take urgent action to combat climate Ensure inclusive and equitable quality

change and its impacts

education and promote lifelong learning Conserve and sustainably use the oceans,

opportunities for all

seas and marine resources for sustainable Achieve gender equality and empower

development

all women and girls Protect, restore and promote sustainable Ensure

availabilit y

and

sus tainable

use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably

management of water and sanitation for all

manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation

Ensure access to affordable, reliable,

and halt biodiversity loss

sustainable and modern energy for all Promote peaceful and inclusive societies Promote

sus tained,

inclusive

and

for sustainable development, provide

sustainable economic growth, full and

access to justice for all and build effective,

productive employment and decent work

accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization

Strengthen the means of implementation

and foster innovation

and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development 13

EFICO GROUP | NETWORK OF COMPANIES EFICO GROUP’s network of companies gives you direct access to the entire world’s coffee production. Our tailor-made services include sustainable sourcing, competitive price proposals & structuring, high quality assurance, smart logistics, current availability and forecasts, and much more.

EFICO GROUP

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

EFICO | A PASSION FOR COFFEE EFICO is a green coffee specialist acting as a connector in the coffee value chain since 1926. EFICO covers the need of the roasting industry and small specialty roasters, and is able to offer their clientele unique

MORE INFO

varieties delivered from around the world.

CUPRIMA | COFFEE WITH AN IDENTITY CUPRIMA is the group’s specialty coffee division and an additional EFICO response to the growing need to promote flavour and origin diversity. CUPRIMA’s coffee range consists of extraordinary qualities, prepared for

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both the connoisseur and the regular market. Based on the organoleptic profile, traceability and physical quality assessment, roasters can choose within 3 categories; Prima, Autentica, and Terra.

EFICO FOUNDATION | COFFEE FOR PEOPLE, PEOPLE FOR COFFEE At EFICO, our sustainable sourcing commitment goes hand in hand with investment in a sustainable coffee future through the EFICO FOUNDATION.

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Established as a private foundation in 2003, the EFICO FOUNDATION’s goal is to positively impact coffee farmer’s livelihoods, prosperity and environment.

SEABRIDGE | GREEN COFFEE LOGISTICS SEABRIDGE is a sustainable green logistics service center and distribution platform dedicated to green coffee in the port of Zeebrugge, founded to meet the existing community needs and to define a sustaina-

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ble benchmark for all companies within the sector.

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2025 KEY FACTS AND FIGURES

•

9 projects created concrete impact in 4 different countries: Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras and Tanzania

•

with direct improved possibilities, empowerment and prosperity for 8,218 coffee entrepreneurs

•

indirectly generating a positive impact on the lives of over 6,783 coffee families

In 2025, EFICO and the EFICO FOUNDATION advanced Phase 2 of the ‘Kilimanjaro Water & Food for All’ project in Tanzania, building on a strong Phase 1. Two public-private partnerships were launched: ‘Kilimanjaro Climate Smart Agriculture – Water and Food for All’ (co-financed by the Flemish Government) and ‘Kilimanjaro Water and Food for All’ (co-financed by the Business Partnership Facility, funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg). EFICO and APK cofinanced both initiatives, with HerenciaVL as key partner and strategic advisor. Implementation began in early 2025, focusing on low-carbon, water-efficient irrigation and regenerative, climate-smart agriculture -with tangible progress already visible in Kilimanjaro’s coffee fields.

85% 16

15%

International exporter

62%

Local exporter

23%

Cooperative

directly sourced from local actors

Communication On Progress Year 2025

EVOLUTION CERTIFIED & VERIFIED COFFEES* 2007 - 2025 64%

62%

58%

53%

49%

13%

2007

2008

49%

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

of our sourced coffees are certified or verified against sustainable standards

*In ‘Insights into EFICO’s 2025 Sourcing Strategy & Market Trends’, (p.22), you can read what we understand as certified and verified coffee, and how we translate these facts & figures into reality & practice.

EUDR Coffee production is a major driver of deforestation, causing soil degradation, biodiversity loss and increasing carbon emissions. To address this global issue, the EUDR requires importers to prove that coffee placed on the EU market does not come from land deforested after 31 December 2020, with traceability at plot level and due diligence in the supply chain. In 2025, EFICO made significant progress towards a deforestation-free supply chain, with 44% of purchase contracts sourced from land that has not been deforested after 2020. From all the geolocation datasets assessed for EUDR readiness, 93% were approved according to our internal standards.

Regenerative and climate-smart agriculture in Tanzania Within the Tanzania projects, regenerative and climate-smart agriculture are key. When soils and their surrounding environments are able to flourish, entire ecosystems are transformed. This, in turn, has a positive impact on both the community and the crops grown.

PARTNERSHIPS WITH

We highly support initiatives as The Global Coffee Platform’s Sustainability Reference Code, the Commitment’s Hub of Sustainable Coffee Challenge, the programs and trials of World Coffee Research and Equal Origin’s Gender Equity Index Tool.

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

EFICO | A PASSION FOR COFFEE EFICO is a green coffee specialist acting as a connector in the coffee value chain since 1926. EFICO covers the need of the roasting industry and small specialty roasters, and is able to offer their clientele unique varieties delivered from around the world.

HIGHLIGHTS | 2025 Reconnecting with our global and local partners Field Trips | Travelling to the Origins Several trips to Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Peru, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda,…

Fairs & Events | Hosting, Cupping, Networking • February 2025 | Madrid Coffee Fest • March 2025 | Nordic Coffee Fest, Gothenburg • March 2025 | Producer Roaster Forum, Honduras • March 2025 | Jury Service at Belgian Junior Coffee Ambassador, Namur • April 2025 | Le Paris Café Festival

• Q2 2025 | European Coffee Federation, Koffieverbond, BVDAKI-UPCAIC • June 2025 | World of Coffee Geneva • August 2025 | Coffee Congress Anacafé, Guatemala City • September 2025 | Panel Discussion, Hesselink Koffiebranders Inspiratiedag, Winterswijk

• April 2025| Amsterdam Coffee Fest

• September 2025 | Paris Coffee Show

• April 2025 | Specialty Coffee Expo,

• October 2025 | KOFFIECAFE,

Houston • April 2025 | Antwerp Coffee Week • May 2025 | Jury Service at Golden Cup competition - Anacafé, Guatemala City

Koninklijk Verbond van Koffiebranders (Koffieverbond), Belgium • October 2025 | 16th SCTA Coffee Forum & Dinner, Basel

• May 2025 | Fairtrade CLAC, Antigua

• October 2025 | Brussels Coffee Show

• May 2025 | EUDR Panel Discussion Ana

• November 2025 | Sintercafé, Costa Rica

Café, Guatemala City • May 2025 | Botanic Garden Meise Cupping and Presentation Results ClimCoff project, Meise

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NOORD NATIE – Finalist ‘Onderneming van het Jaar®’ 2025 (EY Enterprise of the Year) With roots dating back to 1548, NOORD

In 2025, NOORD NATIE’s entrepreneurship,

NATIE has grown from an Antwerp-based

resilience, vision, and social engagement

family business into a specialised interna-

were recognised through its nomination as

tional logistics holding. The group operates

a finalist for the Onderneming van het Jaar®

in the storage and distribution of liquid

award, organized by EY following a rigorous

bulk, fresh fruit, and coffee and cacao, com-

nomination and evaluation process.

plemented by global trading in specialty products such as coffee and cacao.

As a proud member of NOORD NATIE, EFICO is honoured to be part of a group

Its operations are organised around three

whose long-standing dedication and

strategic pillars: specialised port terminals,

values continue to drive sustainable growth

logistics real estate, and global trading in

and innovation.

specialty products.

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

Local Projects ClimCoff Project Results

•

Reintroduction of Coffee Agroforestry:

In May 2025, a cupping session was organ-

More than 50 hectares of coffee agrofor-

ised, and a presentation took place at

estry fields were planted. In these forest

Botanic Garden Meise to inform about the

farming systems, coffee trees are mixed

results of the ClimCoff project.

with annual crops, banana plants, and

Robusta coffee was once the most impor-

trees to diversify harvest and increase

tant agricultural export product of the DR Congo, but the sector was decimated by

farmer resilience.

•

Local Engagement and Capacity

political instability, diseases and a lack of

Building: Local communities are sup-

investment.

ported by establishing plantations at

In Yangambi (Tshopo province), the ClimCoff

Farmer Field Schools. Young plants are

project is developing sustainable Robusta

produced in nurseries where local staff

coffee production to increase the economic

are trained. The project continues to

and climate resilience of local agriculture and

encourage community engagement

to mitigate climate change. This collabora-

and ensures the continued growth of the

tion between Meise Botanic Garden, EFICO,

local coffee sector. Over 300 families are

KU Leuven, CIFOR-ICRAF, R&SD, and INERA

involved in the project.

- funded by the Flemish government in the

•

Data Generation and Collection:

context of international climate finance - has

Experimental plantations were estab-

achieved the following results:

lished to evaluate the yield and carbon

•

Infrastructure Rehabilitation: A fully

storage capacity of coffee monoculture

equipped research and demonstration

and coffee agroforestry with bananas

unit has been installed for processing

and various tree species. Genetic lines

coffee cherries into high-quality green

that came out promising in research

beans and seeds for nurseries.

were used for planting.

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

INSIGHTS | 2025 Encouraging and fostering a knowledge sharing culture

EFICO GREEN COFFEE TRADERS’ FIELD REPORT GUATEMALA & EL SALVADOR Harvest, Quality & Market Insights – A Chat with EFICO’s Green Coffee Traders.

Click and read the full story

DECAF UNPACKED: THE BEAN WITHOUT THE BUZZ From Origins to Innovations: A Deep Dive into the Process, Pioneers, and Standards of Decaffeinated Coffee.

Click and read the full story

BRAZIL COFFEE HARVEST – UPDATE 2025/2026 Quality confirmed. Challenges real. EFICO’s Brazil 2025/2026 harvest insights.

Click and read the full story

HOW THE EU’S ORGANIC REGULATION UPDATE AFFECTS COFFEE VALUE CHAINS The European Union has been updating several regulatory frameworks affecting coffee imports.

Click and read the full story

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EFICO | CONNECTING THE COFFEE VALUE CHAIN INSIGHTS INTO EFICO’S 2025 SOURCING STRATEGY & MARKET TRENDS THE COFFEE VALUE CHAIN IN 2025

In 2025, several of these pressures conver-

PERFORMANCE AND TRENDS IN A

ged. Arabica prices surged on the New York

VOLATILE MARKET

C Market amid drought-affected Brazilian

The coffee market has always been volatile,

crops and delayed harvests in parts of

but in recent years, fluctuations have intensi-

Central America. Logistical bottlenecks,

fied. While prices were historically shaped by

geopolitical tensions, and lingering trade

harvest expectations, weather patterns, and

policies, including tariffs introduced under

supply–demand dynamics, financial market

the Trump administration, added further

mechanisms -including speculative trading

complexity to the global trading environ-

and algorithm-driven strategies, increasingly

ment. Meanwhile, regulator y develop-

amplify price swings, sometimes exceeding

ments in the European Union -notably the

underlying supply fundamentals.

EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and updated organic standards, introduced

At the same time, climate change remains the

additional compliance requirements for

most significant long-term challenge facing

actors across the coffee value chain.

the sector. Across producing regions, erratic

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weather patterns -from prolonged droughts

Despite this challenging environment, EFICO

to unexpected rainfall and extreme storms,

achieved strategic growth in 2025, while

disrupt harvest cycles, reduce yields, and

continuing to build on nearly a century of

create growing uncertainty throughout the

experience in connecting coffee value chain

global coffee value chain.

partners. Through strategic sourcing and

Communication On Progress Year 2025

transparent collaboration with partner farmers, cooperatives, exporters, and roasters, EFICO works to strengthen every link in the chain -helping partners navigate market volatility, regulatory complexity, and climate-related challenges.

EFICO | CONNECTING THE COFFEE VALUE CHAIN PURPOSE DRIVEN PARTNERSHIPS AND STRATEGIC OPERATIONS For nearly a century, EFICO has connected coffee value chain partners through longterm, trusted relationships that foster resilience and shared growth. Through its origin offices and green coffee trading teams, EFICO works closely with partner farmers, cooperatives, and exporters, providing market access,

15%

International exporter

62%

Local exporter

23%

Cooperative

technical guidance, and sustainability support while maintaining lasting partnerships with partner roasters worldwide.

Complementing its operational sourcing work, the EFICO FOUNDATION -along with the coffee roasting community and institutional partners, structurally supports coffee producing communities worldwide with the

85%

directly sourced from local actors

goal to positively impact coffee farmers and their families’ livelihoods, prosperity, and environment.

In 2025, 85% of EFICO’s coffee continued to be sourced from local actors, reflecting

EFICO | QUALITY, TRACEABILITY &

the company’s long-standing commitment

SUSTAINABILITY

to locally rooted supply chains. Within this

Y2025 KEY FACTS & FIGURES FROM

share, cooperatives represented 23% of

EFICO’S MAIN SOURCING AREAS

total sourcing volumes, while local exporters accounted for 62%, showing a slight

PURPOSE DRIVEN LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS

shift compared to 2024. The remaining 15%

EFICO’s sourcing strategy is built on pur-

comes from international exporters.

pose-driven partnerships across the coffee value chain, starting at origin. By collabora-

These long-term partnerships support local

ting closely with cooperatives, local exporters,

economies, strengthen farming communi-

and trusted supply partners, EFICO works

ties, and reinforce resilience throughout the

to ensure a transparent and resilient coffee

broader coffee value chain -particularly in

supply while reinvesting value locally in cof-

times of market volatility and environmental

fee-producing regions.

uncertainty.

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EFICO’s sourcing offices in Ethiopia, Central

Rainforest Alliance held the largest share

America, and Brazil remain central to this

at 64%, also leading in absolute growth, while

strategy. Beyond operational hubs, they serve

Fairtrade and Organic recorded the largest

as centers of adaptive collaboration, connect-

relative growth, recovering from the decline

ing EFICO directly to coffee-growing regions.

observed in 2024 as premiums increased and

By working closely with partner farmers,

market prices remained high.

cooperatives, and suppliers on the ground, these origin offices help partner farmers nav-

A shift in origins was observed, with a lower

igate fluctuating market conditions, climate

share of Organic and Fairtrade sourced

challenges, and evolving regulatory require-

from Central America in favour of Latin

ments, while strengthening relationships

America, Africa, and Asia.

with partner roasters worldwide.

However, overall coffee sourcing volumes CERTIFIED, VERIFIED VS NON-VERIFIED

increased even faster than certified volumes.

COFFEE

As a result, the relative share of certified

In 2025, EFICO recorded remarkable growth

and verified coffee represented 49% of

in absolute terms, with certified volumes

total sourcing -marking the third consecu-

increasing by 34% compared to last year,

tive year of modest relative decrease.

while shares among Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade, and Organic remained stable, reflecting

continued

commitment

to

certifications.

64%

62%

58%

53%

49%

13%

2007

2008

49%

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

of our sourced coffees are certified or verified against sustainable standards

Despite this shift, EFICO’s sourcing remains above the global market average, as reported by the Global Coffee Platform in 2024, which registered 47% sustainable sourcing under third-party schemes.

These dynamics reflect broader market conditions. During periods of high and volatile coffee prices, certification models can become more complex for both producers and buyers, as certification costs and administrative requirements must be balanced against market opportunities.

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Communication On Progress Year 2025

STRATEGIC SOURCING DEEP DIVE : KEY ORIGINS

Honduras Guatemala

Vietnam

Colombia Ethiopia

India

Nicaragua Rest of Central America

Uganda

Peru

Brazil

Rest of Asia

Rest of Africa

Rest of S. America

Certified | Coffee is compliant with and audited against internationally recognized sustainability standards Verified | Coffee is compliant with and audited against company’s sustainability standards Not Verified

The world map above provides a 2025 snap-

BRAZIL

shot of coffee origins, showing the shares

Brazil remained EFICO’s largest sourc-

of certified, verified, and unverified coffee.

ing origin in 2025, accounting for approxi-

These patterns vary across EFICO’s key cof-

mately one-third of total sourcing volumes.

fee-producing regions, reflecting differ-

The country continues to provide high-quality

ences in sourcing volumes, certifications,

Arabica coffees that form an essential compo-

and partnerships.

nent of both blends and single-origin offerings.

For a more detailed view, we analysed

In 2025, 47% of EFICO’s Brazilian sourcing

sourcing data from EFICO’s major coffee

was certified, meaning the coffee complies

origins with established sourcing offices

with internationally recognized sustainable

-Brazil, Central America, and Ethiopia

standards and is audited accordingly. An

-and included Uganda, a country featured

additional 17% was verified, meaning the

in this deeper analysis despite not having an

coffee meets EFICO’s internal sustainable

EFICO origin office. This analysis highlights

standards -including 6% verified through

how sourcing volumes, certifications, and

independent verification processes and 11%

partnerships differ across regions and sets

from local partners aligned with EFICO’s sus-

the stage for a closer look at each origin’s

tainability standards. This brings the total

sourcing profile.

share of Brazilian coffee meeting certification or verification criteria to 64%.

27

At the same time, 85% of Brazilian coffee

Central America therefore remains a key region

volumes were sourced from local actors,

for EFICO’s certified sourcing, supported by

reinforcing EFICO’s long-standing commit-

strong local partnerships and ongoing initia-

ment to strong local partnerships.

tives that contribute to sustainable coffee production and traceable supply chains.

While certified volumes increased in absolute terms, the relative share of certified

ETHIOPIA

coffee declined slightly as conventional vol-

Ethiopia experienced significant growth in

umes expanded more rapidly amid strong

coffee sourcing volumes in 2025, with total

market demand.

volumes more than doubling compared to the previous year. While much of this increase

CENTRAL AMERICA

occurred in conventional coffees, certified

Central America remained one of EFICO’s

volumes also expanded.

most important regions for certified sourcing in 2025. 66% of coffees sourced from the

In total, 21% of Ethiopian coffees sourced

region were certified, meaning they comply

by EFICO were certified, with an additional

with internationally recognised sustainable

19% meeting EFICO’s internal sustainability

standards and are audited accordingly, with

standards. This brings the total share of cof-

Rainforest Alliance representing the larg-

fees aligned with sustainability criteria to 40%.

est share and showing the strongest growth.

Fairtrade sourcing also showed steady

Local partnerships remain central to EFICO’s

growth during the year, while Organic-

sourcing approach in Ethiopia, with 80% of

certified coffees declined both in absolute

volumes sourced from local actors. A key

volumes and relative share.

partner in this development is KURU, EFICO’s long-standing sourcing partner in Ethiopia,

This trend reflects a combination of market

which expanded its operations to eight

dynamics and regulatory developments:

washing and/or collecting stations in 2025

high and volatile coffee prices influenced pro-

-four more than in 2024. This expansion

ducer and buyer decisions, while the increas-

strengthens processing capacity and trace-

ing complexity of complying with updated

ability while reinforcing EFICO’s direct con-

EU organic requirements made sourcing fully

nection to coffee-producing communities.

compliant Organic coffees more challenging in some producing countries.

Across the region, 79% of EFICO’s sourcing came from local actors, reinforcing long-standing partnerships with cooperatives and exporters. Through the ongoing work of the EFICO FOUNDATION, EFICO supports projects that promote training and education, sustainable incomes, infrastructure development, and diversity, while mitigating environmental impacts and climate change, with the aim of positively impacting coffee farmers’ livelihoods, prosperity, and environment.

28

Communication On Progress Year 2025

UGANDA

Regulation

Uganda is included in this 2025 analysis

announcement of another one-year delay

because sourcing volumes from the country

in its entry into application. By the end of

have grown significantly, making it a strate-

the year, 93% of geolocation datasets sub-

(EUDR), despite the late

gic addition to EFICO’s Robusta portfolio.

mitted for EUDR contracts were approved

Within just two years, Uganda has become

according to EFICO’s strictest standards

EFICO’s third-most important origin for

and assessments. This reflects both the

Robusta coffee, even though sourcing

growing familiarity of suppliers with EUDR

remains predominantly conventional.

requirements and the improving quality of incoming data, demonstrating how detailed

79% of Ugandan volumes were sourced

feedback from EFICO’s GIS team is being inte-

from local actors, highlighting EFICO’s

grated effectively at origin.

commitment to building sustainable, locally rooted supply relationships, even in regions

A major step in this process was the launch

without a permanent origin office.

of EFICO’s supplier portal during the summer. The portal has streamlined data

Uganda’s rapid rise adds a new, locally

collection, ensuring rigorous traceability and

sourced supply to EFICO’s portfolio, rein-

segregation at shipment level, and is now

forcing traceability and partnerships and

also used to gather legality-related informa-

supporting the company’s broader global

tion from suppliers on an annual basis. This

sourcing strategy.

includes mandatory topics such as indigenous peoples, human rights, and traceability.

EFICO | EUDR READINESS

Through these measures, EFICO has strength-

GLOBAL READINESS & SUPPLIER

ened supply chain transparency and account-

ENGAGEMENT

ability, supporting suppliers in meeting EUDR

In 2025, EFICO continued its efforts to en-

requirements while maintaining readiness for

sure compliance with the EU Deforestation

the regulation’s eventual enforcement.

29

TOGO | FIELD ENGAGEMENT, DATA

Satellite imagery-based assessments

COLLECTION & GROUND TRUTHING

initially indicated deforestation on

While EFICO’s EUDR readiness work

dozens plots; however field verification

reflects system-wide improvements

allowed to rule out the risk for the major-

in traceability and deforestation risk

ity of them. The risk was confirmed

assessments, translating these stand-

on a few plots only and was mainly

ards into practice requires hands-on

due to the extension of coffee produc-

support in regions where suppliers

tion plots into previously forested land.

are less familiar with geolocation and

Some plots were also excluded due to

traceability requirements. Togo was

their location in classified forests and

selected for focused engagement to

the unclear regulations governing agri-

ensure suppliers could implement these

cultural activities within these areas.

requirements effectively on the ground.

All non-compliant plots were identiSince early 2024, EFICO has trained

fied and their coffee will be segregated

local field teams to collect, harmonise

through the local partner and EFICO’s

and validate farmer and plot-level data.

traceability systems, ensuring EUDR

Over 2025, the teams collected nearly

compliance while continuing to work

10,000 GPS points, documenting plot

with farmers. The field engagement

locations, farm characteristics, and

also provided practical education on

production details. A second field visit

deforestation prevention, EU regula-

in December 2025 implemented ground

tions, and viable alternatives to pre-

truthing procedures to verify deforesta-

serve primary forests.

tion alerts and provided deeper insights into multi-tier supply chains locally.

This Togo case illustrates EFICO’s hands-on approach, integrating train-

Most coffee plots are managed within

ing, data collection, verification, and

agroforestry shade systems, under

risk management to ensure even

an open forest canopy and surrounded

less-prepared origins are part of a

by fields of other crops. The majority of

transparent, traceable, and sustainable

coffee trees were planted before 2000,

coffee value chain.

as indicated by their large trunk sizes.

30

Communication On Progress Year 2025

31

A SHARED PERSPECTIVE ON WHAT TRULY MATTERS INSIGHTS FROM EFICO’S DOUBLE MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

The objective was clear: to turn our intuition,

Building a sustainable future for both

knowledge, expertise, and ongoing monitor-

business and society requires more than

ing into a stakeholder-validated and measur-

ambition alone. It calls for clarity on what

able foundation that can guide our sustaina-

truly matters, alignment with those who

bility strategy towards 2050.

shape and depend on our value chain, and action grounded in reality.

The DMA is the first formal step required under the Corporate

At EFICO, sustainability has long been

Reporting Directive (CSRD). While EFICO

shaped by experience, boots on the ground,

ultimately falls outside the revised scope

purposeful partnerships, and a constant

following the Omnibus proposal, we delib-

finger on the pulse across the coffee value

erately chose to conduct this exercise. It

chain. To strengthen this approach and

provides a robust and credible basis to

translate it into a shared, structured frame-

challenge and refine our sustainability

work, we completed a Double Materiality

priorities, grounded in the perspectives

Assessment (DMA) in 2025.

of those who precede and follow us in the coffee value chain.

32

Sustainabilit y

Communication On Progress Year 2025

At its core, the DMA looks at sustainability from two angles.

•

It assesses EFICO’s impacts on people and the environment across the value chain (inside-out),

•

while also examining external environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors that may create financial risks or opportunities for the company (outside-in).

Together, these are referred to as Impacts, Risks and Opportunities (IROs).

The CSRD sets out ten topics that form the foundation of any sustainability strategy, referred to as the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).

We analysed these ten topics using a double axis -across our own operations, as well as upstream and downstream in the coffee value chain.

33

FROM SCOPE TO SIGNIFICANCE – EFICO’S FOUR-STEP ASSESSMENT APPROACH To ensure neutrality and robustness, the DMA was conducted with the support of South Pole, an independent climate consulting company -following a structured four-step approach.

STEP 1: PRE-SCREEN OF THE ESG

STEP 3: SCORING THE IRO’S

UNIVERSE

Next came the scoring of identi-

The process started with a pre-screen-

fied IRO’s. Each shortlisted topic was

ing of EFICO’s ESG universe. By ana-

assessed based on severity and like-

lysing our business context, our value

lihood for impacts, and magnitude

chain, our internal documentation

and likelihood for financial risks and

and existing literature, we identified

opportunities.

an initial long list of sustainability

Public indexes and databases relevant

topics and filtered out those that

to the coffee sector and producing

were redundant or not relevant to our

countries were used, complemented by

activities.

desk research, expert judgement, and stakeholder insights from step 2.

STEP 2: ENGAGING INTERNAL AND

34

EXTERNAL STAKEHOLDERS FOR

STEP 4: DEFINING THE MATERIALITY

ROBUST INSIGHTS

THRESHOLD TO IDENTIFY ESG

We then moved into stakeholder

PRIORITIES

engagement .

acros s

Finally, the materiality scores of

upstream, operational and downstream

all shortlisted IRO’s were evalu-

levels were mapped, and their inter-

ated against the threshold rec-

action with EFICO’s potential impacts,

ommended by EFR AG (European

risks and opportunities was assessed.

Financial Reporting Advisory Group) in

A survey was sent to 150 suppliers and

its first draft of the Double Materiality

clients, ensuring representativeness in

Guidance -which serves to highlight

terms of origin, volume, size and prod-

the ESG topics most significant to the

uct types. In parallel, nine in-depth

organisation and its stakeholders. The

interviews were conducted -five inter-

results were subsequently reviewed

nally and four with external stakehold-

and discussed with the Sustainability

ers -to anchor the analysis in opera-

team and the Executive Committee,

tional reality and sector best practices.

including representatives from EFICO’s

The final response rate reached 37%,

board and management, to ensure

a strong return for a B2B survey -pro-

a well-informed identification of the

viding a representative dataset.

company’s material ESG topics.

Key

ac tors

Communication On Progress Year 2025

WHAT THE DOUBLE MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT REVEALS ACROSS THE VALUE CHAIN Out of 150 IRO’s identified across the value chain, 51 came out as material -including 36 impacts and 15 risks and opportunities.

Of the material topics, 59% were related to the environment, 35% to social issues and 6% to governance.

Unsurprisingly, the largest share of mate-

A simplified DMA matrix is represented

rial topics sits upstream in the value chain

below with the highest rated IRO score per

-where the most significant impacts of

ESRS. The bubble size is proportional to the

coffee production occur.

amount of IRO’s identified under each topic

Around 80% of material topics were iden-

(material and non-material).

tified at this level, followed by 12% at the downstream level and 10% within EFICO’s own operations.

TURNING MATERIAL TOPICS INTO STRATEGIC PRIORITIES While material topics were identified in each ESRS, we classified them into three strategic priority groups based on their impact, financial materiality scores, and the number of material topics identified. The sphere and extent of EFICO’s influence were also considered as a medium-sized green coffee trader that does not grow its own coffee.

It is important to note that this classification is not fixed and may evolve over time or vary in specific contexts.

35

§ 1 – HIGH PRIORITY: HIGH IMPACT AND

S2 WORKERS IN THE VALUE CHAIN

FINANCIAL RELEVANCE

Coffee producers are the backbone of the

The FIRST GROUP includes topics that score

industry, playing a central role in ensuring

high on both impact and financial rele-

coffee quality and healthy ecosystems.

vance. These topics require close monitoring and immediate action to prevent or mit-

Despite their essential contribution, many

igate further harm.

smallholder farmers and upstream workers

For EFICO, these are high-priority topics

continue to face inadequate working con-

where we can create meaningful impact

ditions and insufficient incomes, under-

and drive real change.

mining food security and financial stability within local communities and perpetuating

E1 CLIMATE CHANGE

cycles of poverty.

It is no surprise that climate change has emerged as a top material topic, given

Modern labor challenges persist, particularly

the sensitivity of coffee plants to extreme

among seasonal workers, and issues such as

weather events -such as droughts, floods,

child labor remain a concern.

and diseases, and the resulting impacts on global coffee markets.

Gender inequality is also pronounced, as female coffee producers often have limited

Furthermore, most emissions associated

access to training, land, and credit, restrict-

with green coffee occur during the produc-

ing their ability to manage and develop their

tion stage, through fertilizer use, land-use

own farms.

changes including deforestation, and fermentation processes. Road and maritime

These structural challenges increasingly drive

transport, which rely on fossil fuels, also

migration, especially among younger work-

account for a significant share of greenhouse

ers seeking more secure livelihoods else-

gas emissions.

where, which in turn contributes to a declining and ageing workforce already observed

→

To address these challenges and secure

in many coffee-producing countries.

future supply, there is an opportunity

36

to

suppor t

producing

in

es tablishing

countries

→

Addressing these challenges requires

climate -resilient

dedicated support and stronger due

production systems and in complying

diligence systems at exporter and

with the EU’s increasingly stringent

importer levels, beyond existing certifi-

sustainability regulations.

cation schemes.

Communication On Progress Year 2025

E4 BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS

plantations, and contributes to greenhouse

Coffee yields depend on healthy soils, pol-

gas emissions.

linators, and the shade provided by trees.

Thriving ecosystems and rich biodiversity

Wet processing generates large volumes

are therefore essential for sustainable coffee

of polluted wastewater, which is frequently

production.

discharged untreated into rivers.

Yet these natural assets are increasingly

Certification schemes help mitigate these

under threat. Agriculture-driven deforest-

impacts by limiting synthetic fertilizer use

ation and the overuse of agrochemicals

and requiring proper treatment and dis-

deplete soil nutrients and reduce popula-

posal of contaminated water.

tions of insects crucial for pollination. →

Although there are effective coffee pro-

The impact goes beyond decreasing yields

duction methods that use little to no

and bean quality; it affects ecosystem ser-

chemicals, implementing them requires

vices of local communities such as food

transition time and training for farmers,

production and freshwater availability, and

as well as investment from the coffee

contributes to overall loss of plant, bird and

industry in technological innovations to

insect species.

control pollution.

The consequences extend beyond declining yields and bean quality. Ecosystem degrada-

§ 2 – MEDIUM PRIORITY: HIGH FINANCIAL

tion also undermines vital services for local

RELEVANCE, MODERATE IMPACT

communities, including food production and

The SECOND GROUP comprises topics

freshwater availability, while contributing to

that score high in financial materiality but

the loss of plant, bird, and insect species.

somewhat lower in impact materiality.

→

Addressing this challenge -the biggest

In other words, the associated risks and

hurdle in sustainable coffee produc-

opportunities could have substantial finan-

tion, requires a holistic approach and

cial consequences for EFICO, yet EFICO’s

a thorough review of cultivation prac-

ability to generate additional impact is

tices. Coffee traders can support this

limited due to the scope of its activities or

by orienting their sourcing policies

progress already made. Consequently, these

toward shade-grown, zero-deforesta-

topics are classified as medium priority.

tion coffee systems.

G1 BUSINESS CONDUCT E2 POLLUTION

Building trust and integrity throughout the

Coffee cultivation can significantly impact

coffee value chain is essential -not only to

soil, water, and air quality, primarily through

secure access to qualitative goods from

the use of fertilizers and pesticides, which

suppliers but also to ensure timely access

are often poorly regulated in producing

to capital, thereby fostering equitable busi-

countries.

ness relationships. More than ever, coffee traders must put in place strong govern-

The use of agrochemicals leads to the

ance frameworks and thorough due dili-

accumulation of heavy metals in soils,

gence processes to identify, prevent, and

contaminates groundwater around coffee

manage risks while ensuring compliance 37

with applicable regulations. Incidents of cor-

and work–life balance remain and must be

ruption, bribery or food fraud -particularly at

addressed to sustain employee engagement

the exporter level, can trigger legal liabilities

and productivity.

and significant reputational backlash.

E3 WATER & MARINE RESOURCES Equally important is the cultivation of a

The water demands of coffee production

strong corporate culture in which both

-encompassing both irrigation and wet pro-

boards and employees uphold ethical

cessing, vary with a country’s origin and agri-

values and responsible practices, which is

cultural practices. In regions where water is

critical to attracting and retaining talented

scarce, cultivating coffee can compete with

professionals.

other crops that local communities rely on for subsistence or supplementary income.

S1 OWN WORK FORCE A skilled and motivated workforce is fun-

Water-efficient technologies and practices

damental to business success. Coffee trad-

are available and, when scaled at commu-

ing increasingly demands expertise in both

nity level, can be transformative -as demon-

the coffee sector and evolving EU require-

strated by the ‘Kilimanjaro Water & Food for

ments, as well as a diverse workforce capa-

All’ project in Tanzania, supported by the

ble of building strong relationships across

EFICO FOUNDATION through a public–pri-

upstream and downstream value chain

vate funding scheme.

partners.

Improved irrigation and water management Ensuring employee satisfaction requires

practices have restored farmland produc-

providing a safe working environment, clear

tivity and enhanced long-term sustaina-

career development pathways, and fair and

bility. As a result, downstream users have

competitive compensation. While signifi-

gained improved access to water, contrib-

cant progress has been made in EU countries

uting to better livelihoods across the entire

regarding workers’ rights, persistent chal-

community.

lenges related to gender equality, diversity,

38

Communication On Progress Year 2025

S4 CONSUMER AND END CONSUMERS

must still be carefully monitored within the

Even though EFICO does not engage directly

supply chain.

with coffee consumers, we do have an impact on the level of knowledge and infor-

E5 RESOURCE USE AND CIRCULAR

mation shared at the downstream level.

ECONOMY

While access to traceability data -including

Although coffee traded in bulk generates

origin, producer organisations, and geo-ref-

minimal packaging waste, cultivation and

erenced plots, has improved significantly

processing produce significant biomass

following the adoption of the EUDR, further

waste. Many parts of the coffee plant can,

progress is needed in the collection and val-

however, be used regeneratively and trans-

orisation of transparent information about

formed into value-added products. While

ESG practices in the value chain.

certification systems include waste management requirements, these primarily focus on wastewater and hazardous chemicals.

§ 3 – LOWER PRIORITY: HIGH IMPACT, LOW FINANCIAL RELEVANCE

Farmers need better information on and

The THIRD GROUP comprises ESG topics

access to organic waste management tech-

that score relatively high on impact but

niques, within climate-smart agriculture

low on financial materiality. In other words,

practices -a topic already addressed under

while these topics are less likely to pose

‘E1 Climate Change’ and ‘E4 Biodiversity &

immediate financial risks or opportunities,

Ecosystems.’

EFICO can still exert a meaningful influence.

Since we believe our impact is greatest when focused on a limited set of strategic priorities -and because some topics overlap, we have assigned the following topics under different ESRS to this lower-priority group: S3 AFFECTED COMMUNITIES Local communities experience indirect impacts from coffee production: inadequate wages can lead to financial instability and food insecurity; pollution can limit access to clean water and productive soils; and deforestation can threaten livelihoods and ecosystem services. Through the EFICO FOUNDATION many of these unintended consequences on our suppliers –such as hindered access to water, housing, education and healthcare, are already addressed under the ‘S2 -Workers in the Value Chain’ topic.

Although EFICO does not own coffee plantations, potential risks such as land rights violations affecting indigenous peoples 39

A CONFIRMATION -AND A SHARPER FOCUS Rather than revealing unexpected outcomes, the DMA confirmed what EFICO had already sensed through experience, engagement, and continuous monitoring. What has changed is the level of clarity. Our sustainability priorities are now grounded in a shared perspective, validated by stakeholders across the value chain, and will be formalised in a structured and measurable framework.

These outcomes will guide how we prioritise our strategic focus areas, review existing policies and performance, and define the objectives we aim to achieve by 2050, ensuring our actions remain targeted, pragmatic, and aligned with long-term, sector-level goals developed through collaborative efforts.

The DMA also marks the first step towards CSRD compliance and forms the foundation of our sustainability roadmap and reporting. The next step will be to translate priority material topics into clear, measurable indicators and targets, ensuring transparency, accountability, and progress over time. These elements, together with our new reporting framework, will be presented in our next sustainability report.

Far from being an endpoint, this DMA marks the starting point of a shared journey -a reference for action, grounded in dialogue, evidence, and a long-term commitment to what truly matters.

40

Communication On Progress Year 2025

41

CUPRIMA | COFFEE WITH AN IDENTITY CUPRIMA is EFICO Group’s specialty coffee division and an additional response to the growing need to promote flavour and origin diversity, and foster stable and sustainable supply chains that make sense in today’s challenging environment.

A dedicated CUPRIMA team of coffee experts and Q graders takes care of the selection, sourcing, logistics and sales of specialty coffee. Outstanding coffee qualities are selected, directly sourced and fully traceable down to washing station or farm level, while building win-win partnerships and connecting farmers and craft coffee roasters.

For more information visit our website

42

Communication On Progress Year 2025

Autentica

Prima

Terra

• SCA: 86+

• SCA: 84-86

• SCA: 82-84

• Exceptional coffees

• High quality coffees

• Typical of the

• Unique sensory

• Authentic

organoleptic profile

• Available according to

of its region

the crop calendar

• Available all year

experiences • Exclusive • Optimal traceability

• Traceable to the region

In 2025, CUPRIMA partnered with 268 roasters across 29 countries, delivering 144 lots from 16 different origins and expanding our portfolio with a new origin: Panama.

x1 Dominican Republic

x8

x5

Guatemala

Honduras

x6

x1 Indonesia

x 27

El Salvador

Colombia

x7

x 25 Ethiopia

x 22

Nicaragua

x5

Brazil

Kenya

x 19 Costa Rica

x1 x1

Panama

x3 Peru

DR Congo

x 10 x3

Rwanda

Burundi

various types of coffees

43

44

Communication On Progress Year 2025

HIGHLIGHTS | 2025 Reconnecting with our global and local partners Field Trips | Travelling to the Origins Several trips to Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Peru, Tanzania, Togo, …

Fairs & Events | Hosting, Cupping, Networking •

February 2025 | Cupping Coffee & Cacao

•

Flavour Flights with SILVA Cacao - Madrid Coffee Fest • •

August 2025 | Coffee Congress Anacafé, Guatemala City

•

September 2025 | Cupping - Barista Cup Ostrava, Czechia

•

September 2025 | Cupping & Panel

March 2025 | Cupping & Keynote

Discussion ‘les nouvelles relations pro-

‘Guatemala & El Salvador edition’, HQ

ducteurs sourceurs’ - Paris Coffee Show

Antwerp •

•

March 2025 | Producer Roaster Forum, Honduras

•

Geneva

March 2025 | Cupping - Nordic Coffee Fest, Gothenburg

June 2025 | Cupping - World of Coffee

•

October 2025 | Cupping & Keynote

March 2025 | Jury Service at Belgian

‘Impact of Post Harvest on Terroir’ -

Junior Coffee Ambassador, Namur

KOFFIECAFE, Koninklijk Verbond van

•

April 2025 | Le Paris Café Festival

Koffiebranders, Belgium

•

April 2025 | Cupping - Amsterdam Coffee

•

Fest • • •

April 2025 | 2025 Specialty Coffee Expo,

Dinner, Basel •

October 2025 | Cupping, Key Note

Houston

‘Terroir and the impact of new fermen-

April 2025 | Cupping with the new CVA

tation processes’ & Panel Discussion

form, Antwerp Coffee Week

‘The coffee Sourcing Equation: Volatility,

April 2025 | Cupping + Keynote ‘Green

Regulation (EUDR), Innovation’ - Brussels

Specialty Coffee Pricing Transparency -

Coffee Show

Beans on Fire, Paris •

October 2025 | 16th SCA Coffee Forum &

•

October 2025 | Panel Discussion ‘What

May 2025 | Jury Member, Golden Cup

is Direct Trade?’ - MycoffeeAwards,

Competition at Anacafé, Guatemala City

Barcelona

•

May 2025 | Fairtrade CLAC, Antigua

•

May 2025 | EUDR panel discussion Ana

•

November 2025 | Sintercafé, Costa Rica

Café - Guatemala City •

May 2025 | Service support during the Q Arabica Grader Combo Exam & Training Course V5.1 at SEABRIDGE

Collabs •

Teaming up with SCA France Sponsoring ‘Le Championnat de France de Torréfaction’

•

Teaming up with SCA Belgium Sponsoring Roasting competition

•

Teaming up with World Coffee Research 45

INSIGHTS | 2025 Encouraging and fostering a knowledge sharing culture

CUPRIMA GUATEMALA & EL SALVADOR FIELD REPORT, JANUARY 2025 Navigating Central America’s new crop and climate patterns.

Click and read the full story

CUPRIMA, HIGH FIVE TO FIVE YEARS! Celebrating the Journey, Cupping the Future and Looking Ahead to What’s Next.

Click and read the full story

HOW THE EU’S 2025 ORGANIC REGULATION RESHAPES COFFEE VALUE CHAINS What to expect and how to get involved.

Click and read the full story

WHAT IT TRULY MEANS TO SOURCE SPECIALTY COFFEE A CUPRIMA perspective – Coffee with an Identity.

Click and read the full story

46

Communication On Progress Year 2025

47

WHAT IT TRULY MEANS TO SOURCE SPECIALTY COFFEE A CUPRIMA PERSPECTIVE – COFFEE WITH AN IDENTITY In a market increasingly shaped by trace-

THE HIDDEN CHALLENGES OF SOURCING

ability, authenticity, and flavour, choosing

Sourcing specialty coffee goes far beyond

the right coffee is only the visible part of the

selecting beans. Bringing coffee into Europe

iceberg. The invisible part is what makes

involves navigating a maze of regulations,

sourcing truly complex: ensuring coffee rea-

inspections, and certifications. Every ship-

ches a roaster’s doorstep -legally, securely,

ment must meet customs requirements,

and in perfect condition, while consistently

health and phytosanitary standards, organic

arriving on time.

certification, food safety compliance, and heavy metal testing. Add to that EU labelling

At CUPRIMA, sourcing green coffee is not

requirements, traceability protocols, evolving

merely a trade. It is a craft that connects

legislation such as the EUDR, and internatio-

worlds: from farms to roasters, from soil and

nal logistics, and it becomes clear: importing

terroir to compliance and storytelling. Our

coffee demands both expertise and meticu-

perspective is simple: great coffee starts with

lous planning.

great sourcing, and great sourcing requires precision, care, and deep knowledge -because every coffee carries its identity.

48

Communication On Progress Year 2025

Yet regulations are only part of the story. The

Expertise is another critical element.

coffee supply chain is inherently unpredic-

Identifying and evaluating coffee quality

table. Weather patterns, droughts, and hur-

requires a combination of sensory skill and

ricanes can affect yields and quality, while

deep agricultural knowledge. Understanding

geopolitical instability or civil unrest can

genetics, processing methods, and terroir

delay exports. Market volatility -whether

ensures that every cup reflects its origin. From

from speculative trading or sudden price

farm visits and cupping sessions to export

shifts -can disrupt planning. Even seemingly

documentation and import compliance, a

minor events, such as port closures or ship-

green coffee sourcer builds a complete pic-

ping delays, can affect the journey from

ture of a coffee’s value from farm to cup.

farm to cup.

Finally, sourcing demands understanding Managing these challenges requires pre-

the specific needs of roasters and markets.

paration and flexibility. Maintaining buffer

Finding good coffee is one thing; finding

stocks in Europe, monitoring harvest cycles

the coffee that truly makes a difference for a

closely, and planning shipments well in

roaster or a particular cup profile is another.

advance helps mitigate disruptions. While

Sourcing involves interpreting how different

some events remain outside anyone’s con-

people experience and appreciate coffee

trol, a proactive sourcer ensures continuity,

based on context, culture, and preparation,

protecting both roasters and producers.

ensuring each shipment meets both taste and market expectations.

49

HOW CUPRIMA BRIDGES ORIGIN &

Authentic storytelling is part of this phi-

ROASTER

losophy. We help roasters craft narratives

At CUPRIMA , we see ourselves as facili-

rooted in truth, providing insights from

tators rather than just buyers. Our role is

origin, sensory profiles, fermentation details,

to support producers in positioning their

visual materials and, whenever possible,

cof fees internationally, guiding them

direct introductions to the farmers behind

through regulatory requirements like the

the beans. These stories give coffee identity

EUDR, and helping them understand the

and resonance beyond the cup.

expectations of final consumers. We act as a voice for producers, telling the story of

True sustainability also means transpa-

their coffee: what makes it distinctive, and

rency about the relationships behind every

why it stands apart.

bag of coffee. It is about understanding each other’s realities, fostering respect, and

50

Sourcing with intention and identity means

creating partnerships where both produ-

building long-term relationships with far-

cers and buyers can grow together. Only

mers and communities. Trust, collabora-

through these intentional, trust-based

tion, and shared commitment to quality

relationships does coffee go beyond being

are central. Coffee sourced this way reflects

a commodity -it becomes coffee with an

care, integrity, and relationships -not just

identity, carrying the care, expertise, and

transactional value.

collaboration that define CUPRIMA.

Communication On Progress Year 2025

COFFEE WITH AN IDENTITY Sourcing is not simply about importing beans. At CUPRIMA, we are hands-on sourcers, flavour connoisseurs, and origin collaborators. Most importantly, we are bean bridgers: connecting farmers with roasters, ideas with execution, and coffees with the stories they carry.

What we deliver is more than coffee. It is coffee with an identity -shaped by expertise, guided by intention, and grounded in the care, integrity, and relationships behind every bean. That is what CUPRIMA stands for: Coffee with an Identity.

KUDO’S, INSPIRATION & REFERENCES INTELLIGENCE COFFEE – The industry needs to remember that relationship coffee is a business EFICO – Why teaming up with a Green Coffee Sourcer makes Sense SILVA CACAO – The Art of Cacao Sourcing SILVA CACAO – Why teaming up with a cacao Sourcer is a Smart Move, and then some…

Click here for the online insight

51

By supporting innovative and scalable projects in coffee-producing countries, along with the coffee roasting community and insti-

COFFEE FOR PEOPLE, PEOPLE FOR COFFEE

tutional partners, a positive ripple effect is put into motion.

Established as a private foundation in 2003, the EFICO FOUNDATION’s goal is to positively

At EFICO, sourcing sustainably and estab-

impact coffee farmers’ livelihoods, prosper-

lishing long-term partnerships with our cus-

ity and environment. The multi-stakeholder

tomers and suppliers, facilitated by our local

approach adopted is unique and is a dynamic

offices, is key. Our sustainable sourcing com-

tool to foster partnerships. The EFICO

mitment goes hand in hand with investment

FOUNDATION is about PEOPLE: from coffee

in a sustainable coffee future through our

farmers, their families and local communities

EFICO FOUNDATION.

to coffee roasters and coffee lovers.

To date, we report back on about 90 projects in 18 producing countries.

Discover them on our website.

52

Communication On Progress Year 2025

IN SHORT: •

Private foundation, established in 2003

•

Co-designs and supports projects that create a positive impact on coffee farmers’ livelihoods, prosperity and environment

•

Projects are selected by an independent jury of experts

•

A flexible tool to build a sustainable supply chain : support by sourcing coffee with EFICO

•

contributing 0.25 EUR/kg or direct transfer to the Fund Friends of EFICO FOUNDATION: www.eficofoundation.org

•

100% of the contribution goes directly to the projects, EFICO covers operational expenses, funds are managed independently and transparently by the King Baudouin Foundation

•

Working together: a multi-stakeholder approach, fostering partnerships

IN 2025: •

9 projects in 4 different countries with concrete impact

•

direct improved possibilities, empowerment and prosperity for 8,218 coffee entrepreneurs

•

generating a positive impact on the lives of more than 6,783 coffee families

53

HIGHLIGHTS | 2025 Reconnecting with our global and local partners

Field Trips | Travelling to the Origins Various trips to Central and South America and Africa

Fairs and coffee events | Attending, Networking & Hosting It was nice to reconnect at WOC Geneva, Paris Coffee Show, SCA Houston, Anacafé’s Coffee Congress, 16th SCTA Coffee Forum & Dinner and Sintercafé.

EFICO FOUNDATION PARTNERSHIP IMPACT REPORT Together with our EFICO FOUNDATION

Our EFICO FOUNDATION partnership

partners, we proudly look back on 9 projects

impact report serves as a practical tool for

in 2025 that have directly improved oppor-

our partners, enabling them to demonstrate

tunities, empowerment, and prosperity

the tangible results achieved through each

for 8,218 coffee entrepreneurs, while posi-

supported project and its contribution to the

tively impacting the lives of more than 6,783

United Nations Sustainable Development

coffee families.

Goals.

Through Public–Private Partnerships, such as the Tanzania projects featured on the following pages, we are able to scale impact even further.

54

Find out more

Communication On Progress Year 2025

55

OVERVIEW CURRENT EFICO FOUNDATION PROJECTS | 2025

Honduras

Guatemala Tanzania Colombia

In 2025, the EFICO FOUNDATION supported nine projects across four different countries, directly improving opportunities, empowerment, and prosperity for 8, 218 coffee entrepreneurs and generating a positive impact on the lives of more than 6,783 coffee families.

GUATEMALA Solar Panels for Cooperative Nuevo Sendero

56

COLOMBIA A new generation of coffee entrepreneurs, committed to productivity and quality

GUATEMALA Healthy Homes for coffee farming families

Communication On Progress Year 2025

GUATEMALA Entrepreneurs in action: 4th Bachelors in coffee project

GUATEMALA Entrepreneurs in action, Bachelors in coffee at Finca El Platanillo and Finca El Panorama

HONDURAS Zero Carbon: Towards Sustainable Coffee Farming

TANZANIA Kilimanjaro Water & Food for All

TANZANIA Kilimanjaro Climate Smart Agriculture Phase 2

TANZANIA Kilimanjaro Water & Food for All Phase 2

57

For this 2025 reporting, we reflect on EFICO FOUNDATION’s Flagship project ‘KILIMANJARO WATER & FOOD FOR ALL’, launched in honour of 20 Years of EFICO FOUNDATION in 2023:

BUILDING ON PHASE 1 OF THE EFICO FOUNDATION FLAGSHIP PROJECT ‘KILIMANJARO WATER & FOOD FOR ALL’ ONE YEAR OF PHASE 2: IMPACTS AND RESULTS EFICO FOUNDATION PROJECT KILIMANJARO WATER & FOOD FOR ALL PHASE 1 In 2023, we proudly celebrated 20 years of EFICO FOUNDATION -2 decades of meaningful impact supporting coffee farmers, guided by our motto: ‘Coffee for People, People for Coffee’. To mark this milestone, we launched a new EFICO FOUNDATION flagship project, ‘KILIMANJARO WATER & FOOD FOR ALL’ (KW&F4A).

Co-funded by EFICO, EFICO FOUNDATION and African Partnerships Kilimanjaro and partnered by Herencia Value your Legacy, this Phase supported the water-intake infrastructure in the Weru Weru sub-catchment and promoted reforestation efforts. It represented a key step toward a scalable model for water management that, combined with regenerative agriculture, enhances productivity, secures rural water supply, and supports communities linked to coffee and food production (maize, beans, and other short-cycle crops).

58

Communication On Progress Year 2025

PHASE 2

The project also supports awareness

As the ‘KW&F4A’ project is scalable and

campaigns and capacity-building ini-

serves as a replicable model for advancing

tiatives, reaching 3,500 cooperative

additional cooperative-owned farmlands in Kilimanjaro, together with our partners, we

members.

•

‘Kilimanjaro Water and Food for All’,

remain committed to expanding this ini-

co-financed by the Business Partnership

tiative. The project also promotes cultural

Facility (an initiative funded by the

change and multi-stakeholder engage-

Grand Duchy of Luxembourg), promotes

ment, driving the positive transformation

a sustainable and reliable coffee supply

of the coffee sector while highlighting

chain from Tanzania to Europe by imple-

values such as conservation, participation,

menting water-efficient irrigation on

regeneration, prosperity, innovation, and

120 hectares of Kyumasha and Fonrwa

collaboration.

farms. The project also includes regenerative agriculture, capacity-building

Phase 2 introduced two key projects,

sessions, and a strategic sustainable

funded and implemented through public-

market strategy, benefiting 2,700 coop-

private partnerships:

erative members.

PUBLIC COMPONENT

PRIVATE COMPONENT

•

‘Kilimanjaro Climate Smart Agriculture -

EFICO and APK co-finance both projects

Water and Food for All’, co-financed by

with HerenciaVL serving as a key partner

the Flemish Government, is a demon-

and strategic advisor to ensure maximum

stration project focusing on climate

project impact.

change mitigation and adaptation through water-efficient irrigation on

In early 2025, project implementation began

approximately 123 hectares and regen-

with the support of our partners.

erative agriculture on 440 hectares in Lyamungo and Manushi Narumo farms.

59

'KW&F4A' PROJECT PHASE 2 AT A GLANCE The 'Kilimanjaro Water & Food for All' project Phase 1 supported the water-intake infrastructure in the Weru Weru sub-catchment and promoted reforestation efforts, laying the foundation for water-efficient irrigation and regenerative agriculture in selected areas.

Phase 2 scales up this approach by expanding water management using low-carbon irrigation systems, while continuing the implementation of regenerative and climate-smart agriculture.

KILIMANJARO CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE - WATER AND FOOD FOR ALL JANUARY 2025 TO JULY 2027: This project is co-financed by the Flemish Government through the Flanders International Climate Action Programme (FICAP), a funding call coordinated by G-STIC and the department of Environment and Spatial Development. The project runs from January 2025 to July 2027.

Purpose: Demonstrating a Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) model for water management and regenerative agriculture, the project will implement a low-carbon, gravity-fed irrigation system on 123 hectares of Lyamungo and Manushi Narumo cooperative farmlands managed by APK, alongside a regenerative agriculture plan for 440 hectares, supported by capacity-building sessions, awareness campaigns, and stakeholder collaboration. →

The project aims to reduce CO₂ emissions, address climate change impacts, empower women and youth, and improve local livelihoods.

Beneficiaries: The project directly benefits at least 3,500 cooperative members and local institutions, including schools, health centers, and community farms, and indirectly reaches more than 3,700 community members through improved water access and strengthened resource management.

Location: Farmlands of Lyamungo and Manushi Narumo Cooperatives at the foot of Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

60

Communication On Progress Year 2025

Project actions and positive pursuits: ☑

The design of low-carbon, gravity-fed irrigation systems for 123 hectares of cooperative land has been completed, providing the basis for efficient and sustainable water use.

☑

Once installed, the new irrigation system is expected to reduce water loss by over 20% and eliminate diesel-powered irrigation, lowering CO₂ emissions by 215.54 metric tons annually for the targeted area.

☑

Demonstration plots will illustrate efficient water use and climate-smart agriculture practices.

☑

In parallel, a regenerative agriculture plan has been developed for 440 hectares -achieving 100% of the target, along with a planned reforestation of 37.4 hectares of riverine buffer zones with over 16,000 native trees.

☑

Capacity-building sessions have benefited 102 participants, with a particular focus on women and youth. Demonstration plots have been identified to provide practical examples for local adoption and learning.

☑

A training manual was developed, translated into Swahili, enabling participants to adopt sustainable practices that enhance resilience, soil health, and productivity.

☑

A stakeholder mapping was conducted to strengthen the multi-stakeholder partnership, including cooperatives, the Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB), the Tanzania Coffee Research Institute (TACRI), and the Sustainable Water Management Partnership (SUWAMA), to enhance collaboration and project impact.

→

These efforts are creating the conditions for a scalable Climate-Smart Agriculture model that promotes food security, reduces CO₂ emissions, and improves livelihoods in the Kilimanjaro region.

This project contributes to

61

KILIMANJARO WATER AND FOOD FOR ALL MARCH 2025 TO MARCH 2027: This project is co-financed by the Business Partnership Facility, an initiative funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.

Purpose: Promoting a sustainable coffee supply chain with origin in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro region, the project implements a low-carbon, gravity-fed irrigation system on 120 hectares of Kyumasha and Fonrwa cooperative farmlands managed by APK, supported by regenerative agriculture practices, capacity-building sessions, and a strategic approach for Belgium and the European markets. →

This project aims to enhance coffee productivity and quality, reduce CO₂ emissions, strengthen rural incomes, create employment opportunities, and benefit local communities while supporting a resilient coffee sector.

Beneficiaries: The project directly benefits 790 APK staff and 2,700 cooperative members by supporting higher incomes and local employment, while the new irrigation system provides surplus water to 177 hectares downstream, indirectly enhancing water access for surrounding communities.

Location: Farmlands of Kyumasha and Fonrwa Cooperatives at the foot of Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

Project actions and positive pursuits: ☑

The installation of the closed, gravity-fed irrigation system covering 120 hectares in the Lambo and Silverdale (KYUMASHA) AMCOS was successfully completed. The system now supplies stable irrigation to 120 ha of coffee farms, and hydraulic modelling confirms an additional 177 ha of downstream land benefiting from improved flow regularity and water availability.

☑

CO₂ emissions from irrigation decreased from approximately 74.69 t CO₂/year (baseline diesel pumping) to ~0 tCO₂/year, as gravity flow fully replaced fossil-fuel pumping.

☑

Regenerative agriculture practices -including cover cropping, organic amendments, and agroforestry - have enhanced soil fertility and increased crop resilience.

☑

Training delivery reached 148 smallholders (51% women and 95% aged 18–35), representing the first wave toward the project’s 790 target beneficiaries.

☑

A gender-balanced expansion plan is underway to achieve ≥60% women participation by the end of year two, including tailored scheduling, peer women trainers, and on-farm mentoring.

62

Communication On Progress Year 2025

☑

A practical Kiswahili training manual on Regenerative Coffee Farming and Efficient Water Use was developed and distributed to support adoption of sustainable practices.

☑

Risk assessments were conducted, including a Double Materiality Analysis to ensure align-

☑

A robust governance and reporting system was established to ensure compliance. Monitoring

ment with EUDR and CSRD. and reporting tools and guidelines, along with capacity-building support, have been provided to facilitate effective impact reporting. These resources also guide the incorporation of a gender approach throughout implementation. ☑

Tanzanian “Tumaini” coffee was promoted in European markets, showcasing the partnership, sustainable production, and community development.

This project contributes to

LOOKING AHEAD - WHAT'S NEXT? We continue to expand the ‘KW&F4A’ project as a scalable, replicable model for advancing additional cooperative-owned farms in Kilimanjaro. At the same time, it fosters cultural change and multi-stakeholder engagement, supporting the transformation of the coffee sector and promoting values such as conservation, participation, regeneration, prosperity, innovation, and collaboration.

We truly value our partners’ support and look forward to continuing this journey.

63

64

Communication On Progress Year 2025

KILIMANJARO COFFEE SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS BUYING COFFEE COFFEE TANZANIA TUMAINI, KILIMANJARO

REGION: Region: Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania Altitude: between 1,350 - 1,750 masl COFFEE SPECS: Species: Arabica Varieties: Bourbon, Kent, N39, KP, F6 Picking: Hand Picked Process: Washed coffee - via semi-submersive channel, saves 85% water consumption vs traditional washing method.

Drying: 50% sun-dried and 50% mechanical dryer with temperature control in slack combustion silo OUR CUPPING NOTES: This fully washed APK coffee has a balanced cup, fine acidity, milk chocolate body with fruity flavours, berry and tobacco notes, bright sweetness and rounded with a smooth finish.

CERTIFICATION & RECOGNITION: Rainforest Alliance

EFICO FOUNDATION PROJECT: KILIMANJARO CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE PHASE 2

EFICO FOUNDATION PROJECT: KILIMANJARO WATER AND FOOD FOR ALL PHASE 2

EFICO COFFEE: TANZANIA TUMAINI, KILIMANJARO 65

sive array of services encompasses shipping, transportation, forwarding, customs and documentation handling, as well as coffee loading and coordinating transportation to end customers on behalf of coffee traders.

PIONEERING GREEN COFFEE LOGISTICS IN ZEEBRUGGE

Backed by a proficient and seasoned team, SEABRIDGE offers a range of value-added services such as coffee reprocessing, sieving, blending, and repacking, tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clientele. Be

SEABRIDGE functions as an advanced logis-

it boxes, bags, big bags, or bulk shipments,

tics service hub and distribution platform

SEABRIDGE 's adaptable logistics solu-

tailored specifically for the coffee industry,

tions are meticulously tailored from the

strategically positioned within the port of

point of origin to the final destination. The

Zeebrugge, Belgium.

warehouse infrastructure at SEABRIDGE is meticulously designed to maintain opti-

66

Its primary aim is to excel in providing solu-

mal storage conditions for green coffee,

tions for the storage, sustainability, and

employing highly automated processes

traceability of green coffee. Its comprehen-

for precision.

Communication On Progress Year 2025

In 2018, SEABRIDGE attained the distinction of being the first Belgian company to be recognized as an SCA Premier Training Campus, a testament to its commitment to excellence. Collaborating with the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), SEABRIDGE organizes annual training courses in coffee quality control, covering Q-Grading, Q-cupping, and Q-Calibration & Retakes.

SEABRIDGE is dedicated to improving energy efficiency in its operations and storage. They work actively to reduce the use of fossil fuels by carefully tracking greenhouse gas emissions and setting strategic goals to lessen their environmental impact.

SEABRIDGE | MILESTONES & METRICS •

Founded in 2009 at the Port of Zeebrugge, establishing itself as a pioneer in sustainable green logistics services

•

Achieved AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) certification in 2012, a global mark of quality recognizing secure supply chain operations, efficient standards, and trustworthiness as a business partner

•

In February 2015, the NOORD NATIE group elevated its managerial engagement within the EFICO Group

•

In 2018, SEABRIDGE became the first Belgian SCA certified premier training campus

•

In July 2023, SEABRIDGE was granted with the Rainforest Alliance 2020 Program License

•

In 2024, SEABRIDGE received the SDG Pioneer Certificate at the VOKA Sustainability event, recognizing leadership in sustainable development

•

SEABRIDGE operates a 20,000 m² warehouse with 9 loading docks, 24 silos, and a storage capacity of 16,000 MT for coffee in bags or big bags

•

SEABRIDGE’s warehouse is equipped with an advanced environmental control system, including permanent humidity and temperature monitoring, air filtration, sterilization, and ventilation systems

•

Powered by 4,600 photovoltaic panels, SEABRIDGE generates 1 MW of peak green energy

•

SEABRIDGE guarantees automated goods handling (receiving and processing), ensuring maximum efficiency and accuracy

•

SEABRIDGE is accessible via inland shipping, sea, and on-site rail connections, with 99% of import containers utilizing intermodal solutions

•

SEABRIDGE features an on-site laboratory for rigorous quality testing and analysis of incoming coffee

•

The core principles of SEABRIDGE are centered around a commitment to quality, maintained through the highest standards and just-in-time services; traceability, supported by an advanced track-and-trace system; and sustainability, driven by the use of green energy, waste recycling, and the cultivation of strong, long-term partnerships

67

LOOKING AHEAD Dear Stakeholders, Partners and Friends of

nerships across the value chain provide the

EFICO,

flexibility to respond proactively, ensuring continued access to quality coffee while

As EFICO enters 2026, the global coffee

supporting partners reliably, regardless of

market is not calmer, but more defined. After

how the market develops.

years marked by sharp rallies, sudden reversals, and overlapping disruptions, volatility has

After several years of declining stocks, even

become a structural condition rather than an

modest supply risks can move markets.

occasional disturbance. The challenge ahead

Futures prices reflect not only confirmed

is not avoiding movement, but navigating it

data, but anticipated disruption, amplify-

with clarity, discipline, and purpose.

ing price swings well ahead of harvest outcomes. Modest production gains in origins

EFICO’s approach is guided by long-stand-

such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Ethiopia

ing values , with quality at its core.

are offset by uncertainty in key arabica pro-

Combined with consistency, reliability, and

ducers, keeping global balances tight.

transparency, these principles shape how we source, trade, and deliver coffee and

Demand adds another layer of complexity.

sustain long-term partnerships across the

While European and North American con-

coffee value chain.

sumption remains stable -particularly for specialty and responsibly sourced coffees,

SETTING THE COURSE IN SHIFTING

growth in Asia continues to reshape global

WATERS

dynamics. These uneven demand patterns,

Global coffee markets enter 2026 charac-

together with tight supply, reinforce that

terized by tight supplies, elevated prices,

volatility is a persistent market feature.

and ongoing volatility. Any potential easing later in the year -linked to expectations of

For European operators, regulatory change

a strong Brazilian harvest in 2026/27, will

adds further complexity. The postponed

depend largely on how conditions unfold.

implementation of the EU Deforestation

Weather remains the dominant variable,

Regulation (EUDR), alongside the thresh-

particularly in major cof fee-producing

old revision of the Corporate Sustainability

regions, where rainfall patterns and extreme

Reporting Directive (CSRD), reinforces the

temperatures continue to drive yield expec-

importance of traceability, transparency,

tations and market sentiment.

and accountability. Good governance is increasingly a structural element of how

The inverted market remains a notable

coffee is sourced, documented, and traded.

feature at the start of 2026, with near-term

Navigating this evolving landscape requires

prices higher than those for later deliver-

strong alignment across stakeholders,

ies. While this reflects current tightness

sound data integrity, and a long-term com-

and cautious sentiment among traders, it

mitment to sustainable practices.

is important to recognize that these con-

68

ditions are dynamic and may shift as the

Sustainability has long been embedded in

year progresses, depending on produc-

EFICO’s way of working and remains at the

tion, weather, and global stock movements.

heart of our operations in 2026. Building on

EFICO’s experienced teams and strong part-

2025 initiatives -from geolocation mapping

Communication On Progress Year 2025

to aligning systems and processes, EFICO

ience of EFICO colleagues across all offices

is further enhancing regulatory readiness

and functions. Their daily work ensures

and deepening sustainability integration.

quality is upheld, coffee flows efficiently,

Simultaneously, preparations for CSRD are

and partnerships remain strong.

progressing, with strengthened data collection and reporting across environmental,

Our producing and roasting partners are

social, and operational dimensions.

equally vital. Through long-term engagement, shared responsibility, and transparent

A future key milestone will be the carbon

communication, these partnerships form

footprint assessment across the entire coffee

the backbone of trust across the value chain.

value chain -from the coffee farm to the roastery door. Through our recent Double

LOOKING FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE

Materiality Analysis (DMA), we identified

In a market shaped by volatility and trans-

EFICO‘s most significant impacts on people

formation, EFICO’s role as a trusted ally is

and the environment (inside-out), as well as

increasingly crucial. We offer access to care-

the financial challenges and opportunities

fully selected coffees across all categories

that sustainability topics present for EFICO

-conventional, specialty, verified and certi-

(outside-in). By understanding these ESG

fied, supported by market insight, technical

themes, we are better positioned to imple-

expertise, and flexible logistics.

ment targeted actions that minimize negative impacts, address emerging risks and oppor-

Clear and open communication, com-

tunities, and meet stakeholder expectations.

bined with active dialogue with partners through sector platforms -including associ-

Collaborating with specialized partners,

ations, institutional partners, and civil soci-

EFICO translates this data into actionable

ety, remains a key objective. By engaging in

insights that drive emissions reduction,

these forums, EFICO helps to ensure that the

enhance ESG performance, and create value

sector’s collective voice is heard, contributing

across the coffee value chain. Through the

to a resilient, future-proof coffee sector.

EFICO FOUNDATION, we continue both existing and new social, environmental,

As EFICO approaches its 100th anniversary

and educational projects, aligned with the

in June 2026, this milestone is more than a

UN Global Compact and the Sustainable

celebration -it is a testament to our track

Development Goals, to structurally support

record, expertise, and enduring credibility

coffee farmers and their families.

in the coffee market. With gratitude to our producer and roaster partners, stakeholders,

Throughout these initiatives, EFICO focuses

and EFICO colleagues, we move forward with

on collaboration: guiding partners through

confidence and long-term commitment.

change, using preparation time strategically, and ensuring sustainability strength-

With an experienced team at the helm

ens -rather than fragments- the coffee

and strong partnerships across the value

value chain.

chain, we look ahead to 2026 -not to wait for calmer seas, but to navigate them together

None of these initiatives would be possible

with purpose, conviction, and shared

without the dedication, expertise, and resil-

responsibility.

69

70

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We would like to take this opportunity to express our utmost gratitude to all our long-term partners: from coffee growers and suppliers to coffee roasters.

A special thanks goes out to our institutional partners and civil society:

In a difficult context with several global challenges, your inspiration and continued support in our effort to contribute to the SDGs has made a difference.

We are grateful for the exchanges, learnings and long-term cooperation.

This report is published online on the website of UN Global Compact ∙ unglobalcompact.org, and on the website of EFICO ∙ EFICO.com This report has been prepared with due care; however, inadvertent errors or omissions cannot be entirely excluded.

Italiëlei 181, B-2000 Antwerpen Tel. : +32 (0)3 233 78 65 EFICO@EFICO.com www.EFICO.com