Back to the news
Corpobich is a cooperative of organic and fair-trade quinoa producers that has been in existence since 2003. Its members come from 53 communities located in the rural areas around Riobamba, in the Andean province of Chimborazo, where around 80% of the population lives from agriculture and livestock. All members are Puruha Indians (Quechua culture) who grow, among other crops, quinoa, a plant native to the Andes.
Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in South America, but with great economic potential: mining and hydrocarbon reserves, as well as agricultural and marine resources. Nevertheless, the country suffers from considerable social instability: strikes regularly rock the country, due to the cost of living and the demands of the indigenous peoples, who feel neglected. In addition, overcrowding in Ecuador’s prisons is leading to an increase in violence attributed to drug traffickers.
Coprobich contributes to the socio-economic development of small producers in Chimborazo, the most Indian, rural and poorest region of the country, and to environmental protection by promoting indigenous culture and know-how. Its social impact on producers lies in enhancing the value of their produce, by improving its quality and giving it access to the market at the best price, particularly under fair trade and organic conditions.
