Dominican ambassador Univeg Katope UK

(L-R) David Maris (Univeg FT Technical Mngr), Rolfi Chevalier, Johanna Sánchez Mawkin, Dr Federico Alberto Cuello Camilo, Alan Forrester (Univeg Joint MD), Andy Ashcroft

Leading fresh produce grower and importer Univeg Katopé UK was pleased to welcome a very special guest recently, the Ambassador of the Dominican Republic.

During his visit, Dr Federico Alberto Cuello Camilo was educated on Univeg's Fairtrade operations and the group's work in CSR in particular, Univeg revealed.

'Being the leading importer of Fairtrade fresh produce products in the UK, outside of bananas, it was a natural choice for the Ambassador, Dr Federico Alberto Cuello Camilo PhD to spend a highly productive day with the company,' the group said in a statement. 'In learning about Univeg’s ongoing business in pioneering Fairtrade products and its commitments to commercial, ethical and social responsibilities, the Ambassador had a truly successful visit.'

Univeg noted that the Ambassador was impressed by the level of commitment made towards energy conservation within the operations channel, while equal admiration was placed on the focus attributed to sustainability carried out at the Spalding site.

The Dominican Republic is located at the outer reaches of the Eastern Caribbean. As well as being a luxury holiday destination, the DR is a country of contrasts. Despite enjoying a prolonged period of political stability and economic growth, typical developing country challenges go hand in hand with rapid growth in the DR. Many farmers and producers find it difficult to make a living. The country’s chief exports include sugar, coffee, and tobacco.