The Coffee Industry Board (CIB) has unveiled a new website, providing a comprehensive and authentic source of information on Jamaican coffee, for buyers and stakeholders

The website, www.ciboj.org, is also part of CIB's strategy to protect the Jamaican coffee brand on the local and international markets. It was launched on March 25, at the board's office, Willie Henry Drive, Kingston.

Howard Mitchell, chairman of the CIB, told the gathering that the Internet site would provide a connection with its stakeholders, while industry players will be able to access critical information about the sector.

The website provides detailed information about licensing, certification, quality control, buyers and access to the latest developments in the Jamaican coffee industry. The home page features the name of the board spelt out boldly in the centre, with its logo to the left and the Jamaican flag on the right.

The site, Mitchell said, was still in transition mode and a second phase is to be launched in coming months, which will allow local and international buyers to track, online, the progress of coffee shipment.

Funding for the website was provided by the Canadian High Commission.

The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) has funded initiatives of the CIB, such as quality assurance, to the tune of $5.2 million since last November.