Bengaluru, NFAPost: In a historic moment for Asia, Bengaluru, India, played host to the 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) from September 25th to 28th, 2023. The esteemed event, held at the Bangalore Palace, marked the first time this global congregation of coffee enthusiasts and industry leaders took place on the continent. The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, along with an array of distinguished dignitaries.
Under the central theme of “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture,” the four-day event sprawled across an expansive 30,000 square meters, drawing participation from an impressive 80 countries. The numbers were equally impressive, with over 2,400 delegates, 128 speakers, 208 exhibitors, and an astounding 10,000 visitors converging for this landmark event.
The International Coffee Organization (ICO), in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Government of India, the Government of Karnataka, and the Coffee Industry, orchestrated this grand affair. The event’s significance was underscored by the presence of notable figures including Shri Joe Kuli, Hon’ble Minister for Coffee from Papua New Guinea, and Shri Massimiliano Fabian, Chair of the International Coffee Council, among others.
India’s pride, Mr. Rohan Bopanna, India’s No.1 Doubles Tennis Player & Arjuna Awardee, and Brand Ambassador of WCC 2023, extended his remarks via a recorded message, while concurrently representing India at the Asian Games.
The conference kicked off with insightful keynote sessions covering a range of topics including Global Coffee Perspectives and Future Prospects by Dr. Vanusia Nogueira, Executive Director, ICO; Principles of Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture by Prof. Gunter Pauli, Economist, Blue Economy; and Coffee Market Future Trends by Mr. Matthew Barry, Insight Manager- Food & Beverage, Euromonitor International.
The extensive four-day itinerary encompassed a spectrum of activities including Conference sessions, Skill Building Workshops, a Growers Conclave, a CEO’s and global Leaders Forum, a Startup Conclave, Competitions and awards, and an Exhibition showcasing cutting-edge coffee products and services. It was a testament to India’s commitment to the global coffee industry, aiming to raise awareness, foster partnerships, and celebrate the world of coffee.
One of the event’s crowning glories was a captivating dome-shaped Coffee Museum, providing a vivid portrayal of coffee plantations in the Western Ghats. This unique structure served as an educational tool, shedding light on the distinctive qualities of shade-grown and sustainable Indian coffees. The exhibition floor was abuzz with activity, housing the entire coffee value chain from bean to cup, including equipment companies, coffee machines, soluble coffee brands, and café chains.
Conference sessions addressed critical themes such as Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture, Financing Mechanisms, Coffee Quality, Sustainability and Climate Change, Start-up Innovations, and more. Skill Building Workshops offered deep-dive sessions on subjects like The Rise of Alternative Milk, Creating Coffee Community – Cafes and Micro Roasters, and A Masterclass in Espresso.
The Growers Conclave provided a global platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration among individuals contributing to the coffee cultivation process. With speakers hailing from coffee-producing nations like Brazil, Mexico, Vietnam, and Colombia, participants were treated to insights into cutting-edge techniques, sustainable practices, and speciality coffee trends.
Bengaluru, the proud host city, showcased a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation in the coffee industry. Traditional folk dances from coffee-growing states added a cultural touch, offering international delegates a glimpse into India’s rich tapestry of traditions.
This momentous event carries on the legacy of previous successful editions and stands as a testament to India’s growing influence in the global coffee landscape. For those who missed this extraordinary gathering, it was an opportunity of a lifetime to witness the evolution of coffee, as industry stalwarts came together to shape its future.
For more information, and to relive the event, visit www.wccindia2023.com.
