Shanghai Hosts the Second 'Taste of China' Global Specialty Green Coffee Bean Competition

The Second 'Taste of China' Competition: A Showcase of Green Coffee Preferences in China

The bustling city of Shanghai recently played host to the second installment of the 'Taste of China' Global Specialty Green Coffee Bean Competition. This exceptional event highlighted the evolving preferences of Chinese coffee consumers and offered a platform for international producers to grasp these tastes effectively.

Event Overview

Taking place at the Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor, the competition unfolded over two days and featured a remarkable selection of approximately 82 premium coffee beans sourced from 16 different countries. Participants included renowned coffee-growing regions such as Brazil, Ethiopia, Colombia, and Vietnam, as well as emerging producers from nations like Thailand, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Burundi. Notably, Chinese regions like Yunnan and Hainan also showcased their unique beans, illustrating the diversity of coffee culture in China.

China's Distinct Coffee Preferences

Unlike Western or Southeast Asian markets, Chinese consumers exhibit distinct preferences for green coffee beans. Despite a notable increase in coffee imports in recent years, many foreign producers have yet to familiarize themselves with China's unique taste palate. The competition aimed not only to bridge this gap but also to present a vivid reflection of the preferences within this growing consumer base.

Support and Collaboration

The event benefited from active support from the embassies and consulates of key coffee-producing countries present in Shanghai, alongside collaboration from various specialty coffee associations. The involvement of industry experts further enhanced the competition's credibility, with judges comprising RD heads and training specialists from leading coffee chains such as Luckin Coffee, Starbucks, and Cotti Coffee. Additionally, national champions in brewing and cupping, as well as passionate coffee enthusiasts, contributed their expertise to the judging process.

Auction and Promotion

A key highlight of this year's competition was the auctioning of the top ten coffees, which garnered significant interest from roasters, café owners, and avid coffee lovers alike. This innovative approach facilitated both online and offline engagement, creating a buzz around the winners and the unique profiles of their offerings. Furthermore, the top 30 winning coffees are set to embark on a nationwide cupping tour, allowing coffee enthusiasts in major cities across China to sample and experience them firsthand.

Looking Ahead

At the end of the cupping tour, public feedback will determine the final recipient of the prestigious 'Most Popular Coffee Award,' expected to shed further light on Chinese consumer preferences. The Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor, as the event’s organizer, continues to signify its commitment to the global coffee industry, partnering with over 200 international coffee enterprises and generating substantial annual trade.

In summary, the second 'Taste of China' Global Specialty Green Coffee Bean Competition not only showcased a spectrum of international coffee beans but also captured the essence of Chinese consumer tastes, setting a precedent for future interactions between international producers and the ever-evolving preferences of the Chinese market.