Krisztina Szalai, Secretary General SCTA
As Secretary General of SCTA, my role includes a diverse set of responsibilities that blends advocacy, coordination, and innovation. SCTA is the representative body and a collective voice of the green coffee trade in Switzerland and beyond, facilitating dialogue, addressing regulatory questions, and championing shared sustainability standards. With over 40 active members representing more than 50% of global coffee exports, SCTA serves as a vital hub for industry dialogue and collaboration with the authorities and all stakeholders. My role as SG is to lead the association into an era of strategic growth and collaboration, while also strengthening our commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.
The challenges facing the global coffee trade from deforestation to sustainability and child labour issues, underscore the critical need for organizations like SCTA. By bringing together diverse voices and fostering dialogue with legislators, governmental and non-governmental organizations, and other trade associations, SCTA plays a vital role in ensuring that our members are well-informed and prepared to navigate the ever-changing landscape of global coffee trade.
Perceptions of the coffee trade industry among the general public often vary, from romanticized visions of bustling markets to concerns about fair trade and sustainability. It is our responsibility, as industry leaders, to bridge the gap between perception and reality, fostering transparency and accountability at every step of the supply chain.
Switzerland’s prominence as the largest hub for green coffee trading companies is not merely a testament to its geopolitical neutrality but also to its robust financial infrastructure and unparalleled talent pool. It is this convergence of factors that has made Switzerland a source of innovation and excellence in the global coffee trade landscape.
As Secretary General, my focus is clear: to continue building on SCTA’s reputation as a trusted source of industry knowledge. The biggest challenge lies in navigating the complex interplay of commercial priorities and sector-wide sustainability challenges within an ever-evolving landscape of global trade dynamics. Together we will continue to drive forward the mission of SCTA, shaping a future where coffee trade is not just a business but a force for good in the world.