Guatemala hosted the third edition of the “Sustainability Committee visit” of the Latin American Sugar Producers Union (UNALA), which brought together more than 40 sustainability directors and managers from sugar associations and mills across 11 countries in the region.
Over the course of three days, experts from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Peru, Ecuador, Chile, and Uruguay had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the sustainability best practices implemented by Guatecaña in the environmental, social, labor, and ethical areas.
The agenda included discussions on topics such as equal opportunities for men and women, due diligence processes and responsible operations, social programs, the impact of climate change, research advancements, as well as Guatecaña’s 2023–2033 Sustainability Strategy—a comprehensive plan promoting the sustainable development of the sugarcane agroindustry.
As part of the visit, participants took part in a field tour to observe the implementation of social programs aimed at improving community well-being and development. They also had the chance to visit one of the eight educational centers operated by the sugar mills, which provide education for the children of mill workers.
This annual meeting is intended to facilitate the exchange of experiences and strengthen regional sustainability strategies. The first edition was held in Colombia in 2023, followed by the Dominican Republic in 2024.
“The goal is to share social, environmental, and labor best practices. Guatemala stands out in the region thanks to coordinated, industry-wide sustainability strategies—experiences that can be replicated in other countries,” said Luis Fernando Salazar, Executive Director of UNALA.
Guatemala currently holds the presidency of UNALA, with Alfredo Vila, President of the Guatemalan Sugar Producers Association (Asazgua), serving as President of UNALA, and Luis Miguel Paiz, General Manager of Asazgua, as Executive President of UNALA.
