CNN Report - Black Gold film shakes up coffee industry

Summary

The documentary 'Black/Gold' spotlights the plight of Ethiopian coffee farmers who, despite the coffee industry's $60 billion value, struggle in poverty. It reveals that for every $3 cup of coffee sold, farmers earn less than $0.03. The film calls for major companies to support fair trade practices, ensuring higher prices and sustainable farming for growers. Critics argue that companies like Starbucks and Nestle are not doing enough to address these issues, highlighting the need for systemic change in global trade rules.

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Q & A

Why is coffee considered such a valuable global trading commodity?

Coffee, after oil, is the most valuable global trading commodity with an industry worth more than 60 billion dollars.

Despite the industry's value, why are Ethiopian coffee farmers still poor?

Ethiopian coffee farmers are still desperately poor because they receive only a fraction of the profits, with farmers earning less than three cents for a three-dollar cup of coffee.

What is the main issue raised by the documentary 'Black Gold'?

'Black Gold' highlights the disparity between coffee farmers' earnings and the profits of multinational companies, urging consumers to be more aware of the origins of their coffee.

What role does Tadesse Meskela play in the coffee industry?

Tadesse Meskela is the manager of the Oromia Coffee Farmers Union, representing 74,000 struggling coffee farmers, and works to protect their livelihoods.

What is Fair Trade, and how does it help coffee farmers?

Fair Trade guarantees farmers higher prices for their coffee and promotes eco-friendly farming methods, aiming to make the coffee market more equitable.

How do major coffee companies respond to accusations of unfair practices?

Companies like Starbucks claim they are working to address industry-wide issues but are criticized for not fully embracing long-term Fair Trade initiatives.

What is the broader issue beyond the actions of individual coffee companies?

The broader issue lies in global trade rules that limit Africa's ability to trade fairly, which worsens the situation for coffee farmers despite international aid efforts.

How much do coffee workers in sorting plants typically earn?

Workers in coffee sorting plants earn around 50 cents a day, a stark contrast to the high prices consumers pay for coffee drinks, such as $6 for a latte.

What does the documentary suggest about the role of multinational corporations in the coffee industry?

The documentary suggests that four major multinationals dominate the coffee industry, pushing down prices and making it harder for farmers to earn a sustainable income.

How does consumer awareness play a role in the issue of coffee farmers' poverty?

'Black Gold' encourages consumers to be more aware of where their coffee comes from and the conditions of the farmers, suggesting that greater consumer pressure could drive change.