ECOM SMS Verified achieves recognition as a sustainable coffee scheme

The Global Coffee Platform (GCP) recently recognised ECOM’s SMS Verified for the third time as equivalent to their Sustainable Reference Code, with this recognition valid through July 2028. This recognition follows an extensive documentation review process covering sustainability-related requirements and alignment with the GCP’s guidelines.

What is the Global Coffee Platform (GCP)?

The Global Coffee Platform is an international association that brings together different stakeholders across the coffee sector, including producers and their organizations, traders, roasters, governments, NGOs, financial institutions, and other participants in the coffee value chain. Its objective is to enable these stakeholders to work together on sustainability issues in coffee production.

What is SMS Verified (SMSv)?

SMS Verified is a program developed by ECOM in 2013, focused on improving sustainability among coffee producers and roasters and generating a positive impact throughout the supply chain.

SMSv requires the implementation of a set of practices at farm level and provides technical assistance to farmers participating in the program. It includes criteria related to social and environmental practices, as well as assessments of productivity and quality, in order to tailor improvement plans toward greater farm profitability.

SMSv is currently implemented in 12 origins across Latin America, Africa, and Asia, including Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru, Uganda, Ethiopia, Vietnam, China, and Papua New Guinea. Growing with El Salvador, Indonesia, and Kenya in 2026.

How does SMS Verified add value to ECOM?

SMSv adds value by offering a product aligned with the commitment and sustainability strategy of roasters and retailers. This enables ECOM to attract resources for investment throughout the supply chain, addressing diverse sustainability priorities. During 2024 and 2025, SMSv reached sales of 445,000 bags, and it is currently purchased by 35 roasters globally.

For more information: please contact Bryan Serrano at bserrano@ecomgroup.com