Viet Nam should expand Arabica coffee area, says official

Ha Noi (VNA) - It is necessary for Viet Nam to rapidly expand its Arabica coffee area, said an official from the Viet Nam Coffee and Cacao Association (VCCA).

Viet Nam has so far developed 25,000 ha of Arabica coffee, which produces 150,000-200,000 tonnes annually.

Doan Trieu Nhan, VCCA Vice President said that Arabica coffee, which is more lucrative than Robusta coffee, would help generate a large number of jobs and help reduce poverty.

The official said, however, that not everyone can grow Arabica coffee, as this kind of plant requires huge capital, skilled workers and good understanding of growing technique.

At present, Viet Nam is the world's biggest Robusta coffee grower, with Robusta area reaching nearly 500,000 ha and turning out 750,000-800,000 tonnes every year, he said.

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