More than a year after the closure of a coffee warehouse in Muzambinho, around 380 rural producers are still awaiting reimbursement for over 16,000 bags of coffee that were stored there.
Over a year has passed since the closure of the Central do Café in Muzambinho, Minas Gerais, leaving approximately 380 coffee producers in a state of financial uncertainty. These producers, from Muzambinho, Monte Belo, Nova Resende, and Cabo Verde, are awaiting the reimbursement of more than 16,000 bags of coffee that were stored at the now-defunct warehouse. The situation has escalated into a legal battle, with the affected families reporting losses amounting to millions of reais, reflecting the significant impact on their livelihoods.
The Central do Café ceased its operations on February 11, 2025, leaving behind only a sign on the building that indicates its previous function as a coffee trading central. At that time, the accumulated value of the bags deposited by the producers was estimated at around R$ 40 million. The closure has not only disrupted the local coffee trade but also raised concerns about financial accountability and the security of agricultural investments. Economic ramifications are felt deeply within the community as many producers feel abandoned and distrustful of the system designed to protect their interests.
Among the affected coffee growers is João Batista Vasconcelos, who lost 177 bags of coffee. He expresses frustration over the lack of financial compensation, stating that the value of coffee has decreased significantly since the warehouse's closure. From an original price of approximately R$ 2,550 per sack, the current price hovers around R$ 1,800. Vasconcelos's sentiment echoes the thoughts of all producers involved—they are losing hope with each passing day as they await resolution and restitution from authorities, severely impacting their mental well-being and financial stability.
