The World of Coffee 2026 is fast approaching, and all eyes are on Panama as it prepares to host this prestigious global event. Known for its rich history of coffee cultivation, Panama is now at the forefront of the specialty coffee industry. But it’s the region of Chiriquí, particularly its highlands, that is making waves as one of the world’s most exciting coffee-producing areas. This blog explores why Chiriquí’s coffee is taking center stage, both at World of Coffee 2026 and on the international coffee scene.
In December 2023, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) officially announced that Panama will host World of Coffee 2026 at the Panama Convention Center in Panama City. This marks the first time the event will be held in Central America, and Chiriquí’s highland coffee is set to shine. The announcement was made during an inaugural signing ceremony with leaders from the SCA, the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama (SCAP), and the Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture of Panama. With Panama’s growing reputation as a coffee powerhouse, the World of Coffee 2026 trade show will bring together professionals from around the globe, providing a unique platform for Chiriquí’s coffee to take center stage.
Panama’s Coffee Scene: A Growing Legacy
Panama has long been celebrated for its premium coffee, but the Chiriquí region is truly where the magic happens. Located in the western part of the country, Chiriquí is home to lush volcanic soil and high-altitude coffee farms that provide the perfect conditions for cultivating some of the world’s most sought-after coffee beans. Chiriquí’s reputation for exceptional coffee has skyrocketed in recent years, thanks to its ideal growing conditions, which produce beans with vibrant, nuanced flavors.
Chiriquí’s coffee is recognized for its unique flavor profiles and aromatic qualities, thanks in part to the region’s elevation and microclimates. The combination of volcanic ash, fertile soil, and the temperate climate at high altitudes results in coffee beans that stand out for their cleanliness, complexity, and balance.
Chiriquí Coffee: Why It Stands Out
What makes Chiriquí’s coffee so special? The region’s geographical advantages play a crucial role in the coffee’s distinctiveness. The high-altitude farms, often perched on the slopes of the Volcán Barú, benefit from cooler temperatures that slow the ripening process, resulting in denser beans with more pronounced flavors. The volcanic soil adds another layer of richness, infusing the beans with unique mineral notes that can’t be found in coffees from other regions.
Notable coffee varieties such as Geisha, which has become a global icon in the specialty coffee world, thrive in Chiriquí. Known for its floral aroma and bright acidity, Geisha coffee is a true testament to Chiriquí’s exceptional coffee-growing conditions. The region also produces other highly acclaimed varieties that appeal to the palates of coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Sustainability is also a key aspect of Chiriquí’s coffee industry. Many farms in the region are dedicated to organic farming practices and environmentally friendly processing methods, ensuring that their coffee is not only delicious but also sustainable for future generations.
The Rising Stars of Chiriquí’s Coffee Farms
Among the many farms in Chiriquí, Finca Janson has made a significant impact on the global stage. Recently, during a highly competitive barista competition, Hiroki Ito from Japan selected a sample of Finca Janson’s beans for his winning brew. This victory is just one example of how Chiriquí’s coffee is gaining worldwide recognition for its superior quality and flavor.
While Finca Janson is one of the most well-known, there are several other coffee farms in Chiriquí that are making a name for themselves in the specialty coffee world. These farms consistently push the boundaries of innovation, experimenting with new processing techniques and refining their coffee to meet the highest global standards.
World of Coffee 2026: What to Expect
As Panama prepares to host World of Coffee 2026, Chiriquí’s role will be pivotal. The event will bring together coffee professionals, growers, and enthusiasts from around the globe, creating an opportunity for Chiriquí’s coffee farms to showcase their beans to an international audience. It’s an exciting time for Panama’s coffee industry, as the spotlight shifts to Chiriquí’s award-winning beans.
On December 11, 2023, the Specialty Coffee Association announced Panama as the host country for the first-ever World of Coffee trade show in Central America, set to take place in October 2026. This monumental event underscores the growing significance of Panama’s coffee sector, especially Chiriquí. The expansion of World of Coffee into Central America highlights the thriving specialty coffee industry in the region and solidifies Panama’s role as a hub for coffee trade and innovation.
As SCA CEO Yannis Apostolopoulos shared, the decision to bring World of Coffee to Panama aligns with the organization’s commitment to promoting coffee consumption in producing countries and supporting sustainability in the coffee industry. For Panama and Chiriquí, this will be a landmark moment to showcase the region’s coffee excellence to the world.
Why You Should Care About Chiriquí Coffee
Whether you’re a coffee lover, a traveler, or an investor, Chiriquí’s coffee offers something for everyone. For coffee enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to experience some of the world’s most exceptional beans, characterized by their bold flavors, complex profiles, and smooth finishes. Chiriquí’s coffee is perfect for those looking to explore premium, single-origin coffees that are crafted with care and dedication.
For travelers, Chiriquí offers an immersive experience in the heart of Panama’s coffee culture. Visiting the region’s coffee farms provides a unique opportunity to see how the beans are grown, harvested, and processed, while also enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of the Volcán Barú.
For investors, Chiriquí presents an emerging market with immense potential. As the demand for high-quality, sustainable coffee grows worldwide, Chiriquí’s coffee industry is well-positioned to meet this demand and continue its rise as a leader in the global coffee sector.
With World of Coffee 2026 just around the corner, Chiriquí’s coffee is ready to take center stage. The region’s highland farms, unique climate, and commitment to sustainability make Chiriquí one of Panama’s most exciting coffee destinations. As the world turns its attention to Panama, Chiriquí’s award-winning beans are set to shine brighter than ever, solidifying the region’s place on the global coffee map. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or someone looking to explore Panama’s coffee culture, now is the time to discover why Chiriquí’s coffee is truly exceptional.
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