Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has committed $1 million to EthicHub, a blockchain-based social impact platform, to facilitate the movement of 100 tons of Latin American coffee to premium European markets. The initiative, part of a broader partnership announced earlier this year, aims to enhance economic returns for smallholder farmers by connecting them to high-value buyers while leveraging decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions. Over 40% of the investment has already been allocated to two key projects: Cosechando Riqueza in Chiapas, Mexico, and Costal Campesino in Colombia, which support coffee cultivation in regions affected by violence or transitioning from coca farming [1].

EthicHub’s platform has already facilitated $5 million in loans for smallholder farmers, with a default rate under 3%, and enabled the sale of 300 tons of coffee, generating over $2 million in revenue. The latest phase, supported by Bybit’s liquidity injection, is projected to yield $1.3 million in sales once shipments begin in August 2025. Coffee sourced from the projects—highlighted for their agroforestry practices and social impact—will enter European markets through partnerships with ethical roasters, ensuring traceability and fair compensation for producers [1].

Blockchain technology is central to the collaboration, enabling transparent supply chains and decentralized credit systems. Bybit’s investment aligns with its strategy to expand blockchain applications beyond cryptocurrency, addressing systemic challenges in agriculture. EthicHub’s model, which connects farmers with global lenders and buyers via smart contracts, has already supported over 10,000 LATAM coffee producers. The initiative’s focus on sustainability and financial inclusion underscores the growing intersection of DeFi and traditional industries [1].

Analysts note that the project’s success hinges on maintaining European buyer interest and adherence to ethical standards. While blockchain offers scalable solutions for supply chain inefficiencies, long-term viability depends on market demand and regulatory alignment. Bybit’s involvement reflects a broader trend of crypto firms diversifying into social impact ventures, though the agribusiness sector remains a relatively untested space for such technology [1].

The collaboration has drawn praise from stakeholders. Freya Chen, Executive Director of the Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA), highlighted the project’s potential to create resilient economic opportunities in underserved communities. Bybit’s CEO emphasized the initiative as a step toward bridging digital innovation and real-world impact, aligning with the company’s corporate social responsibility goals. The platform’s transparent lending and sales systems, fully covered to protect lenders, have already demonstrated low-risk outcomes for investors [1].

Bybit’s investment not only supports coffee producers but also advances EthicHub’s mission to democratize access to capital and markets. The $1.3 million in projected sales represents a tangible shift in value distribution, benefiting farmers who previously faced limited infrastructure and fragmented supply chains. As the initiative scales, it could serve as a blueprint for applying blockchain to other commodities, fostering equitable trade networks while addressing global sustainability challenges [1].

Sources:

[1] [Bybit’s $1M EthicHub Investment shifts 100 tons of LATAM coffee to higher-value markets](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bybits-1m-ethichub-investment-shifts-100-tons-of-latam-coffee-to-higher-value-markets-302513850.html)

[2] [Vietnam Launches NDAChain, the National Blockchain Platform…](https://www.bastillepost.com/global/article/5058757-vietnam-launches-ndachain-the-national-blockchain-platform-to-accelerate-digital-data-infrastructure-by-2026)

[3] [Bybit’s $1M EthicHub Investment shifts 100 tons of LATAM coffee to higher-value markets](https://kalkinemedia.com/author/prnews)