The International Coffee Organization (ICO), in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Government of Karnataka and the Coffee industry are organising the 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) 2023 from September 25-28 at the iconic Bangalore Palace, Bengaluru.
Unveiling of the WCC 2023 Logo and Theme “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture", Dr. S. Selvakumar, IAS, Principal Secretary of the Commerce & Industries Department, Government of Karnataka, said that, "Karnataka is undoubtedly the Coffee capital of India, with a rich heritage of producing some of the finest coffees in the world. There is tremendous opportunity for investments across the coffee value chain- from bean to cup right from equipment companies, coffee machines, and soluble coffees brands as well café chains. This in turn leads to increased employment opportunities for our talent from farm to cafes. Therefore, we are privileged to be the Host State for this event.”
Dr. K.G. Jagadeesha, IAS, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board of India, proudly announced Rohan Bopanna, India’s No.1 Doubles Tennis Player & Arjuna Awardee as the Brand Ambassador of WCC 2023. While making this announcement, he said, “WCC 2023 is being organized for first time Asia and it is set to bring immense benefits to coffee farmers in India. By promoting Coffees of India on the global stage, the event will create new opportunities and markets for these farmers. Moreover, the conference will feature global speakers addressing pressing issues related to circular economy and regenerative agriculture. Overall, WCC 2023 holds great promise for the Global coffee sector, especially the Indian coffee industry fostering growth and sustainable practices while showcasing its rich coffee heritage to the world.”
On being selected the WCC 2023 brand ambassador, Bopanna, said, “My life is a unique blend, bridging the realms of being a coffee planter’s son and a professional tennis player. Growing up amidst the scenic beauty of Coorg's coffee plantations, I've forged a deep connection with coffee while pursuing my Tennis career and I proudly represent the harmony of these two worlds. I am thrilled & proud to be part of the prestigious WCC 2023. As India establishes itself as a flourishing coffee destination, this event holds great promise for fostering growth and collaboration within our rapidly expanding coffee industry."
Jagdish Patankar, Executive Chairman of MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications and Event Curators for WCC 2023, presented a diverse range of event components, including a Conference, Exhibition, Skill-Building Workshops, CEOs & Global Leaders Forum, Growers Conclave, Competitions & Awards, Plantation Tours, Cultural Evenings, Buyer-Seller Meet, and B2B Meetings. These elements promise to create a comprehensive and enriching experience for attendees, making WCC 2023 an impactful and memorable global coffee conference and expo.
The event where the logo and theme were announced was also graced by some of the prominent sponsor representatives including Challa Srishant, Managing Director, Continental Coffee Ltd., Chacko Purackal Thomas, Managing Director and CEO, Tata Coffee Ltd., N. Sathappan, Chairman and Managing Director of SLN Coffee Pvt. Ltd. and Sunayan Mitra, Director, Coffee & Beverage Business South Asia Region, Nestle India Ltd.
The WCC 2023 will host an impressive array of participants, including ICO Member Country Representatives, Coffee Growers, Coffee Roasters, Coffee Curers, Farm to Cup Industry, HORECA, Café Owners, Coffee Nations, Policy Makers, Start-Ups, R&D and Students, according to a press release.
Bengaluru awaits to host this extraordinary global gathering, which will showcase commitment towards sustainability and innovation in the coffee industry. Previous editions of the conference were successfully held in England (2001), Brazil (2005), Guatemala (2010), and Ethiopia (2016), receiving immense appreciation from coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
The World Coffee Conference & Expo is gearing up for an impressive gathering that is set to attract participants from over 80 countries, including 2000+ delegates and 90 speakers. With the participation of 150+ exhibitors, attendees will have the chance to explore a diverse array of products and innovations within the coffee industry. The event is expected to draw over 10,000 business visitors, providing an excellent opportunity for networking and fostering connections among coffee enthusiasts, professionals, and businesses. Moreover, with over 200 B2B meetings, the event offers a promising platform for forging partnerships and collaborations in the coffee sector. All in all, this event promises to be an exciting and enriching experience for anyone passionate about coffee.
The International Coffee Organization (ICO) is the primary intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting coffee trade and fostering cooperation among coffee-producing and consuming nations. The Coffee Board of India is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India and plays a crucial role in supporting coffee growers, conducting research, promoting Indian coffee globally, and implementing various policies and programs to enhance the coffee sector's growth and sustainability.