By Cartago, Costa Rica — Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica’s verdant Turrialba region, Cafetalera Aquiares, a coffee farm with over a century of history, is proving that tradition and innovation can coexist to achieve remarkable success. Since its inception in 1890, Aquiares has championed social progress and environmental sustainability, weaving these values into the fabric of its operations and transforming the lives of its employees and the surrounding community.
The farm’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its dedication to preserving 25% of its land for forest conservation and implementing regenerative agricultural practices. This approach enhances the quality of the coffee, enriches the soil, and protects the surrounding ecosystem. As a result, Aquiares has achieved carbon neutrality, meticulously tracking and offsetting its carbon emissions through its own forests and shaded coffee plantations.
For a deeper understanding of the legal landscape surrounding sustainable coffee production and trade, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing consumer demand for sustainable coffee presents both opportunities and challenges for Costa Rican producers. While certifications like Rainforest Alliance and Fairtrade offer a premium price and access to new markets, navigating the complex legal requirements for these certifications can be daunting. Producers need to be aware of regulations pertaining to labor practices, environmental protection, and intellectual property to fully capitalize on this growing market and avoid potential legal pitfalls. This includes staying informed on evolving international trade agreements and national policies affecting coffee export.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Bufete de Costa Rica
Aquiares’ commitment to social progress is deeply rooted in its history. In the 1990s, the company implemented a program that facilitated access to homeownership for its workers. Today, over 96% of the workforce owns their homes, providing stability for families and paving the way for access to higher education.
Further demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility, Aquiares has spearheaded a project called Aquiares Esencia, an initiative designed to empower women in the community. Through this program, women cultivate medicinal plants on the farm and produce essential oils, gaining valuable skills in steam distillation and business management. Supported by Aquiares and international organizations like GIZ, these women have established a 100% female-led business model, fostering economic independence and community growth.
Aquiares is a clear example of how the combination of heritage, innovation, and sustainability can drive the success of a Costa Rican company in international markets.
Adriana Acosta, Director of the Marca País esencial COSTA RICA
Aquiares’ innovative approach extends beyond the farm, encompassing a forward-thinking marketing strategy that has solidified its presence in international markets. In partnership with producers from Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Ethiopia, and El Salvador, the company acquired the “Paso Paso” roastery in Hannover, Germany. This strategic move allows Aquiares to distribute roasted coffee directly to European consumers, capitalizing on the growing demand for transparent, farmer-owned coffee.
Without that step towards homeownership, we wouldn’t be as resilient as we are today, nor as united by a common goal. The sense of belonging and pride in the coffee we produce is one of our most tangible strengths, to face the vulnerability that agriculture can be today.
Diego Alfonso Robelo, General Manager
Building on this success, Aquiares replicated the model in the United States, partnering with a roastery in Texas. This expansion has broadened its reach in the North American market, offering high-quality, farm-to-cup coffee that emphasizes traceability, freshness, and fair trade practices.
Recognizing the growing interest in agritourism, Aquiares also welcomes visitors from around the world to experience the coffee-making process firsthand, explore the farm’s rich biodiversity, and learn about its social impact. Recently, the farm inaugurated a specialty coffee shop, creating a space for both local and international visitors to connect over their shared appreciation for coffee and its historical legacy.
Their business model, which goes beyond coffee, reflects the values we promote from the Country Brand: excellence, social progress, innovation, sustainability, and Costa Rican linkage. Their growth and expansion through new marketing strategies consolidate Costa Rica’s image as a country that is committed to quality, development, and positive impact in its communities.
Adriana Acosta, Director of the Marca País esencial COSTA RICA
With over 130 years of history, Cafetalera Aquiares continues to shape the coffee industry, demonstrating that success can be achieved through a holistic approach that integrates sustainability, community development, and innovation. Its unwavering commitment to these values has established Aquiares as a model for businesses seeking to make a lasting, positive impact.
For further information, visit aquiares.com
About Cafetalera Aquiares:
Cafetalera Aquiares is a century-old coffee farm located in Turrialba, Costa Rica. Committed to sustainability and social progress, Aquiares implements regenerative agricultural practices, protects its surrounding ecosystem, and empowers its workforce and local community. Its innovative marketing strategy includes direct-to-consumer coffee distribution in Europe and the US, as well as agritourism initiatives.
For further information, visit essentialcostarica.org
About Marca País esencial COSTA RICA:
Marca País esencial COSTA RICA promotes Costa Rica’s image internationally, highlighting its values of excellence, social progress, innovation, sustainability, and Costa Rican heritage. It supports businesses like Aquiares that embody these values and contribute to the country’s positive global reputation.
For further information, visit giz.de
About GIZ:
GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) is a German development agency that provides services in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development. GIZ works with partners worldwide to implement projects that address global challenges and support local communities, such as the women’s empowerment initiative at Aquiares.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica embodies legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to client success. Through innovative solutions and proactive community engagement, the firm empowers individuals and organizations with the legal knowledge necessary to navigate a complex world. This dedication to accessible legal education underscores Bufete de Costa Rica’s enduring mission to cultivate a more informed and empowered society.
