That is the question for now, at least until the official agreement is signed this May. After several attempts to control the price of its coffee, Ethiopia’s government seems to be in promising discussions to sign a licensing agreement with Starbucks. Even though the details of the agreement will not be disclosed until it’s signed, it does appear to be one huge step forward for Ethiopia and its coffee farmers.

The signing of this licensing, distribution, and marketing agreement will benefit about 15 million individuals that depend on the trade of this commodity, by allowing them to capture an estimated total gain of $100 million. But that’s not all, Starbucks has also agreed to double the purchase of coffee from East Africa, increase the number of Farm Support Centers, and expand its micro-credit facilities.

Oxfam America started an international itiative to let the country trademark the names of Sidamo, Harar, and Yirgachefe back in October 2006, and after an estimated 93,000 voices to Starbucks, Oxfam is happy to see the relationship go in a positive direction.