India to host Asia’s first World Coffee Conference in Bengaluru
By Ryan General
The fifth edition of the World Coffee Conference (WCC) is set to be hosted in Bengaluru, India, marking the first time the event will take place in an Asian city.
About the event: The event, organized by the International Coffee Organization (ICO) in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India, will take place from Sept. 25 to 28. Bengaluru’s selection as the host city represents a historic milestone for the Asian coffee industry and a significant recognition of India’s burgeoning coffee sector.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Government of Karnataka, and various industry stakeholders are also extending their support to ensure the conference’s success. Renowned tennis player Rohan Bopanna, a coffee planter himself, has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the event.
What to expect: Under the theme “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture,” the conference aims to tackle pressing issues surrounding sustainable coffee production and the promotion of regenerative agricultural practices.
Participants will also be able to present diverse coffee products to buyers from over 80 countries. ICO expects over 900 attendees, including coffee growers and government representatives from its member countries and other participants. The previous four editions of the World Coffee Conference were held in England (2001), Brazil (2005), Guatemala (2010) and Ethiopia (2016).
Tremendous opportunity: Karnataka’s Department of Commerce and Industries Principal Secretary Dr. S. Selva Kumar highlighted the potential of the state’s coffee industry during a recent ceremony unveiling the logo and theme for WCC 2023.
“There is a tremendous opportunity for investments across the coffee value chain. This, in turn, leads to increased employment opportunities for our talent from farms to cafes. Therefore, we are privileged to host the conference,” he said.
Coffee Board of India CEO KG Jagadeesha similarly expressed optimism about the benefits that the WCC would bring to Indian coffee farmers. ”
“By promoting Indian coffee on the global stage, the event will create new opportunities and markets for these farmers,” Jagadeesha was quoted as saying. “The conference will feature global speakers addressing pressing issues related to circular economy and regenerative agriculture.”
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