When the coffee arrives at the warehouse, staff take a sample for testing. The warehouse doesn't just store the coffee, staff test and give it a grade from one to ten. The lower the number, the higher the quality – and the higher the price.

To create a sample, this warehouse worker takes coffee beans from each bag on the truck. This sample is then given a random code – so that testers cannot be bribed – and divided into three: one sample for testing; one for the customer; the third for reference. Last year, the Awassa warehouse tested more than 7,000 samples and received just one complaint.

DFID supported two leading research institutes who were tasked with finding a solution to Ethiopia's inefficient food and commodity markets.

The UK aid funded research recommended setting up a commodity exchange and helped to design the warehousing, logistics and payment systems that the exchange uses today. The exchange helps to boost exports and secure a better deal for farmers and consumers.

More information: <a href="http://www.dfid.gov.uk/ecx" rel="nofollow">www.dfid.gov.uk/ecx</a>