A farmer takes care his coffee plant in the central highland province of Gia Lai. — VNA/VNS Photo Hong Diep

Japanese beverage company Kirin Holdings is stepping up support for coffee farmers in Viet Nam, amid growing consumer demand for sustainable products.

Japanese newspaper Nikkei Asia reported that the company is training farmers in sustainable production methods, including soil management and helping them obtain certification from an international accreditation organisation that promotes sustainable farming.

Kirin aims to extend support to farms in 700 locations, double the current figure, by the end of the year.

The firm helps Vietnamese coffee growers get certification from the Rainforest Alliance, a US-based non-governmental organisation. To be certified, farmers must not only refrain from using excessive amounts of agrochemicals and work to protect biodiversity but also enhance production efficiency and quality, and improve conditions for farm workers.

Since last year, Kirin has supported 350 Vietnamese coffee farms, helping growers conserve water, protect rivers from pollution and introduce better cultivation methods for areas with low sunlight.

Viet Nam is the world's second-largest coffee bean producer after Brazil. Vietnamese coffee represents about 30 per cent of the ingredients Kirin uses in its products.

Thanks to increased consumer awareness, sales of beans certified by the Rainforest Alliance grew sharply around the world last year, rising 15 per cent from the previous year. — VNS