China – Kaku

Kaku is located in Paliang, the largest coffee producing area in Menglian County, Yunnan.  The family run farm and washing station is led by Mr Li, processing coffee grown by surrounding villages of smallholders as well as their own land. Alongside coffee, the farm grows a variety of trees such as camphor tree (used as an essential oil), Tianzhugui (used in traditional Chinese medicine), with Huanghuali (a type of rosewood) grown to provide shade.

Mr Li and his family have been growing and processing commercial grade coffee for over 20 years. The focus on specialty is less than 6 years old, yet the commitment to quality combined with higher than average elevation means it is producing some excellent washed lots. The family are very well respected in the local community, helping many villagers with education and healthcare, which is highly valued in this remote area.