The Cooperativa Mista dos Produtores e Extrativistas do Rio Iratapuru – COMARU (Mixed Cooperative for Producers and Extractivists along the Iratapuru River) was formed on November 27, 1992, in accordance with the values and principles of cooperation set forth under Law nº 5,764, of December 16, 1971, and all other articles of law pertaining to self-management directives. The administrative headquarters are located in Vila São Francisco do Rio Iratapuru, Laranjal do Jari, Amapá State.

COMARU’s mission is to develop a Brazil nut production chain based on fair trade, offering high-quality produce that enhances the quality of life of the co-op’s members, and that allies the development of extractive practices with forest preservation. The cooperative’s activities strive for sustainability, forest and environmental preservation, the provision of quality products and services, leadership, and commitment to the co-op’s members, especially through transparent administrative practices with solid standards of governance.

To this end, it endeavors to evolve and develop continuously, honing Comaru-member Brazil nut oil extraction processes. The goal is that the project will enable the cooperative to finance the needed repair work on the building’s roof, which is essential to the production of the many tons of nut-oil that drive the Vale do Jari economy.