spotlighting Thailand’s fast-growing specialty coffee scene from May 7–9 at BITEC
Thailand is set to host one of the world’s most influential coffee events as World of Coffee Bangkok 2026 arrives in the capital for the first time, underscoring the country’s growing role as a strategic hub in the global specialty coffee industry.
Following successful editions in Busan, South Korea in 2024 and Jakarta, Indonesia in 2025, Bangkok becomes the third Asian city to host the internationally recognised event. The move reflects the rapid development of Thailand’s specialty coffee sector over the past decade, driven by rising consumer demand, a vibrant café culture, and an increasingly sophisticated ecosystem spanning from farm to cup.
Scheduled to take place from May 7 to 9, 2026 at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), Halls 98–99, the event will bring together coffee professionals, producers, roasters, baristas and industry leaders from across the globe.
A global platform shaping the future of coffee
Organised under the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), World of Coffee is widely regarded as one of the most important trade events in the specialty coffee industry. Since its inception in 1999, the event has served as an annual meeting point for stakeholders across the value chain — from farmers and exporters to roasters and café operators — while also acting as a launchpad for innovation, emerging trends, and global standards.
More than a marketplace, World of Coffee has evolved into a platform where industry dialogue takes place, new technologies are introduced, and professional excellence is showcased through international competitions and knowledge-sharing programmes.
Kangmin Kim, Project Manager at EXPORUM, a global event organiser working closely with the SCA in Asia, noted that Thailand’s dynamic café culture and rapidly expanding consumer base make it a natural host for the event.
“Thailand stands out as a market where both consumption and coffee culture are growing at pace. World of Coffee provides a unique opportunity to bring global conversations, expertise and innovation directly into the Thai market,” he said.
With more than 600 exhibitors from over 40 countries expected to participate, the event will showcase the latest in coffee equipment and technology — from next-generation espresso machines and precision grinders to intelligent roasting systems and café management software — offering local businesses access to global innovations without leaving the country.
Thailand’s strategic role in the global coffee landscape
Thailand’s position as both a coffee-producing country and a fast-growing consumer market sets it apart in the global landscape. This dual strength aligns with broader global trends, where consumers are increasingly interested in traceability, quality, and meaningful coffee experiences.
High-quality growing regions, a thriving café culture, and a new generation of skilled baristas have positioned Thailand as an emerging force in specialty coffee. Hosting World of Coffee Bangkok 2026 is expected to further connect local producers with international buyers and industry leaders, reinforcing Thailand’s role as a bridge between regional production and global markets.
The event is projected to attract more than 400 companies from 40 countries, generating significant economic value through trade and tourism while elevating Thailand’s reputation within the global coffee community.
Unlocking opportunities across the value chain
Industry stakeholders view the event as a transformative moment for Thailand’s coffee sector. Kijja Wongwaree, Executive Director of Aroma Group, said the arrival of World of Coffee Bangkok represents a major opportunity for the entire ecosystem — from smallholder farmers to large-scale operators.
“The global standards introduced through World of Coffee will reshape how the industry operates in Thailand, particularly in shifting from price competition towards value creation through storytelling, quality, and innovation,” he said.
The event will also provide direct opportunities for Thai producers to connect with international buyers and roasters, while SMEs and café operators will gain access to cutting-edge technologies and new business models, particularly those focused on sustainability — a growing priority among younger consumers.
Event highlights
Visitors can expect a rich programme of world-class experiences, competitions and curated tastings, including:
World Cup Tasters Championship (WCTC)
A flagship global competition and one of the most anticipated highlights of the event, the World Cup Tasters Championship tests speed, precision and sensory acuity under pressure.
Participants compete in a triangulation format, where they must identify the different cup among three in the shortest possible time.
Thailand has recently gained international recognition in this discipline, with Chatchalerm Lertanekwattana becoming the country’s first world champion — a milestone that has elevated Thailand’s profile within the global specialty coffee community.
o https://readthecloud.com/boss-chatchalerm-lertanekwattana/
Representing Thailand this year is Punnaphob Suwanjit, Senior Barista from Bottomless Coffee Roasters, who will compete on home ground in what marks a significant moment for the country’s barista scene.
Producer Village: Showcasing the Potential of Thai Specialty Coffee This zone is a collaboration between the Specialty Coffee Association of Thailand (SCATH) and The Cloud. It brings together top Thai coffee farmers and producers in one place, giving visitors a chance to experience the true quality of Thai specialty coffee. Meet the Champions
Visitors will have the rare opportunity to experience coffees prepared by world-class baristas, each bringing their own philosophy and approach to coffee.
Highlights include:
- Boram Um (Brazil) – 2023 World Barista Champion, representing ULT Coffee Roaster (Japan)
- Mikael Jasin (Indonesia) – 2024 World Barista Champion, representing CATUR Coffee
- Juyeon Jeon (South Korea) – 2019 World Barista Champion, from Momos Coffee
- Anthony Douglas (Australia) – 2022 World Barista Champion, from Homebody Union
- George Jinyang Peng (China) – 2025 World Brewers Cup Champion, from Captain George
These champions will be featured across curated brew bars and experiential zones, offering visitors the chance to engage directly with some of the most influential figures in the industry.
Roaster Village
One of the most popular zones within World of Coffee, Roaster Village brings together distinctive coffee roasters from around the world.
Visitors can:
- Taste coffees directly from producers and roasters
- Discover unique roasting styles and flavour profiles
- Purchase rare and limited-edition beans
Participating brands include globally recognised names such as:
- GLITCH Coffee & Roasters (Japan)
- MAME (Switzerland)
- EVERHĀOS Coffee Roasters (Bali, Indonesia)
alongside leading Thai roasters, creating a diverse and immersive global coffee showcase in one location. https://asia.worldofcoffee.org/roaster-village
Cupping Rooms & Brew Bars
Designed for both enthusiasts and professionals, these zones offer immersive tasting experiences and technical exploration.
- Cupping Rooms provide structured tasting sessions featuring coffees from different origins, allowing participants to develop their sensory understanding
- https://asia.worldofcoffee.org/cupping-rooms
- Brew Bars feature live brewing by world champions and industry experts, showcasing a range of brewing techniques and flavor expressions
- https://asia.worldofcoffee.org/brew-bars
- SCA Lecture Series A series of talks and panel discussions led by global experts, covering key topics The sessions are designed to provide practical insights and actionable knowledge for entrepreneurs, professionals and anyone looking to navigate the evolving coffee landscape.
- https://asia.worldofcoffee.org/sca-lecture-series
Innovation on the Exhibition Floor
The exhibition will feature more than 600 booths from over 40 countries, presenting the latest advancements in coffee technology and equipment, including:
- Next-generation espresso machines and precision grinders
- AI-powered roasting systems and smart café management software
- Sustainable packaging solutions
- Water filtration innovations tailored for Southeast Asian conditions
World of Coffee Bangkok 2026 is expected to reinforce Thailand’s position as a leading destination for specialty coffee in Asia, bringing together global expertise, innovation, and cultural exchange under one roof.
For more information and ticket purchases, visit:https://asia.worldofcoffee.org/
