Reports that coffee prices on the international markets could dip following a larger than expected yield by Brazil — the world’s largest producer may not affect Rwanda, authorities have said.

"We are not threatened by high production.

We will produce what we can, and aim at upper quality that doesn’t put us in weaker position," Alex Kanyankore, Director General of the Coffee Development Authority (RCDA), said.

Kanyankore was dispelling fears that East African coffee producing countries may be affected by high volumes of coffee produced by Brazil and Vietnam as reported in the regional papers.

He said plans are underway to produce more coffee— targeting 40 tonnes annually by 2012 to meet the growing demand on the international market.

The authority is also improving standards. Washing stations are to be increase from 120 to 300 by 2012.

According to Kanyankole different contracts have been signed between Rwandan exporters and Americans. The development has also prompted the coffee authority to open up outlets in America, Europe. The Middle East has been targeted this year. The new marketing strategy will cushion the country against any price shocks.

Last year’s national coffee cupping competition is another factor that has increased RCDA’s confidence.

Coffee is one of the leading exports and chief source of foreign income. Coffee exports have played a pivotal role in the nation’s economic development.

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