SHERIDAN, WYOMING – August 9, 2025 – Coffee culture in China just brewed up something special. The second “Taste of China” Global Specialty Green Coffee Bean Competition has wrapped up in Shanghai, revealing exactly how Chinese coffee drinkers like their beans — and giving the global coffee industry a fresh taste of this booming market’s unique preferences.
A Global Coffee Showcase with a Local Twist
For two days, Shanghai’s Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor transformed into a caffeine capital, hosting 82 premium coffee beans from 16 countries. From Brazilian classics and Ethiopian legends to emerging regions like Ecuador and Thailand, the competition brought together the world’s finest harvests alongside China’s own coffee powerhouses from Yunnan and Hainan.
While many producers focus on Western or Southeast Asian tastes, Chinese coffee drinkers have their own distinct flavor profiles — and this event proved just how important it is for roasters and growers to adapt.
What’s Brewing in China’s Coffee Scene
This year’s judging panel wasn’t just made up of industry insiders — it included:
- R&D and training leaders from coffee giants like Luckin Coffee, Starbucks, and Cotti Coffee
- National brewing and cupping champions
- Everyday coffee lovers from across China
The result? A clear snapshot of consumer taste trends that will help producers fine-tune their offerings for the Chinese market.
From Competition to Cup
For the first time, the event’s top ten coffees went under the hammer in a combined online and offline auction. Roasters, café owners, and passionate home brewers all vied for a taste of the best beans, turning the auction into a caffeinated bidding war.
The excitement doesn’t stop there — the top 30 coffees will now embark on a nationwide cupping tour, giving coffee lovers from Beijing to Shenzhen a chance to sip, savor, and cast their votes for the “Most Popular Coffee Award.”
Why This Matters for Coffee Lovers
China’s coffee market is expanding fast, with imports and domestic production both on the rise. But the real story is in the taste shift — consumers here are blending global coffee culture with local preferences, creating a new flavor identity.
For coffee drinkers, it means more variety, better quality, and beans tailored to the local palate. For producers, it’s an opportunity to connect with one of the world’s fastest-growing coffee audiences.
Editorial Extra – How Chinese Coffee Preferences Differ
Compared to many Western markets where dark, bold roasts dominate, Chinese coffee drinkers often lean toward:
- Balanced profiles – smooth, less bitter cups
- Floral and fruity notes – especially in light to medium roasts
- Clean finishes – clarity and brightness over heavy body
This shift opens doors for small-batch roasters and specialty coffee brands to experiment with unique flavor stories.
From Bean to Business
With over 200 international coffee partners from 60 countries, Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor has positioned itself as a major gateway for coffee trade, generating more than 3 billion yuan annually. This year’s competition strengthens that role, bridging the gap between global producers and China’s increasingly discerning coffee community.
Whether you’re a café owner, a home brewer, or simply someone who loves discovering new flavors, the “Taste of China” competition signals an exciting new chapter in the country’s coffee evolution.
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