Giumarra Pablo Borquez

Giumarra’s Mexican asparagus supplier has achieved Fairtrade certification from Fair Trade USA for its asparagus fields in Obregon, Mexico.

The move makes Campo Pablo Borquez the only asparagus grower in North America to be Fairtrade certified, according to a press release from Giumarra.

Campo Pablo Borquez also becomes the second Giumarra grower to become Fairtrade certified, following in the footsteps of the Salazar family, which grows table grapes and watermelon in Sonora, Mexico.

“We are pleased to be working with Pablo Borquez, who recently became the first Fair Trade Certified asparagus grower in the world,” explained Paul Rice, president and CEO of Fair Trade USA.

“American consumers want to make a difference with their purchases, and forward-thinking growers like Borquez are providing more delicious options to contribute toward a better world.”

Giumarra said Borquez and his family began developing projects to benefit the local community in the areas of housing, education, and health back in 1994.

“Pablo is highly regarded for all the work he does to enrich his community,” said Bruce Dowhan, general manager of Giumarra Borquez.

“We are proud that Fair Trade USA has recognized his efforts as we continue to grow our asparagus program.”

The partnership between the Giumarra Companies and the Borquez family is a vertically-integrated operation that grows, packs, and distributes asparagus grown in Mexico to the North American market under the Nature’s Partner label.

Giumarra said it has additional global alliances that, in conjunction with Mexico, provide a year-round supply for its customers.