5th World Coffee Conference held in Bangalore - key takeaways

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air as the 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) 2023 concluded in Bangalore, India. Organised by the International Coffee Organisation (ICO) in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India and supported by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India and the Government of Karnataka, the event brought together 2609 delegates from 80 countries.

2 things you need to know

• The 5th World Coffee Conference celebrated global coffee culture.
• Innovations and sustainability were key themes at the event.

Insights and Visions at WCC 2023

Over four days, the conference explored a myriad of topics crucial to the global coffee industry. Dr K J Jagadish, CEO of the Coffee Board, highlighted discussions on the livelihood of farmers, the shift from linear to circular economy, the future success of the coffee industry, strategies for mitigating crop losses, the evolving coffee culture among Indian youth and the integration of data and technology to enhance farmer efficiency and productivity.

The conference boasted an impressive lineup of 127 speakers, including 80 international experts and 47 Indian professionals, engaging in 45 knowledge sessions. The diverse discussions reflected the dynamic nature of the coffee industry and its importance in the global economy.

Champions crowned and India's coffee odyssey unveiled

The WCC 2023 also hosted various competitions and championships during the event. Hrishikesh Mohite, representing Café De Meet, emerged as the winner of the prestigious National Barista Championship. Priti Pradhan claimed the Women’s Star Brewer Skills Championship, while Mohammad Afsar earned recognition and the opportunity to participate in the International Latte Art Championship in Taiwan.

The exhibition component of the conference showcased India's journey toward becoming a key player in the coffee industry, covering the entire value chain from farm to cup. With 253 exhibitors and 13,947 business visitors, the event provided a platform for networking and exploring business opportunities, reinforcing India's standing in the global coffee community.

As the curtains came down on the 5th World Coffee Conference and Expo, it left behind a rich tapestry of ideas, innovations and recognitions, propelling the coffee industry into a future marked by sustainability, technological advancements and a thriving global community.