Traditionally, the Jipijapa area, in Manabí province, has been one of the main coffee producing areas in Ecuador. Coffee has been produced here since 1860. According to reliable sources, around the years 1871 to 1876, the production was in its budding stages. With the opening of world commerce, the small plantations began to expand significantly. As a result, coffee became a relevant source of income for the families that produced it and eventually, an important export product for the country as a whole, as it generated hard currency. This phenomenon occurred in conjunction with another export product, Cocoa. Around 1903, local data claims that coffee cultivation loses importance and is almost abandoned. However, two years later production is resumed and the port of Manta records exports to Europe. By 1935, yearly exports are 220,000 bags; in 1960 552,000 bags; in 1975 1,018,000 bags and in 1985 1,810,000 bags. However, by 1995 exports fall to 1,080,000 bags. In 2001, 1,062,000 60-Kg bags are produced, equal to 63,720 metric tons, of which 311,804 bags are exported as green coffee. The area under cultivation is about 262,060 hectares. The cultivation, preparation, commerce, industrial production and export of coffee are a relevant part of the country's economy. The private and public sector need to work hand in hand in order to develop and improve the socio-economic conditions of the farmers dedicated to this activity. As a result, coffee exports will grow and generate hard currency for the Ecuadorian economy.