The Lanka Coffee Association (LCA), in partnership with Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) and Jetwing Hotels, hosted the third annual Sri Lanka Coffee Festival at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle on June 6.
The finals of the LCA Barista Championship were held alongside the festival activities. Regional Barista championships were hosted in Dambulla, Galle and Colombo throughout last month. The champion was Suraj Nipunasiri of Butter Boutique, the first runner-up was Johann Paiva of Lost Planet and the second runner-up – Sheno Milan of Seed Café.
Sri Lanka’s first-ever study on the impact of climate change on Sri Lankan specialty coffee was also launched at the event.
The coffee sector has seen growth over the past few years. The growth of the tourism sector has led to a vibrant café culture which has seen an increased demand for local specialty coffee. Industry stakeholders recognising the opportunities in coffee have increased investments in the sector
The guest of honour Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Paul Stephens delivered the keynote address.
The High Commissioner said, “The Australian Government has been a longstanding supporter of Sri Lanka’s coffee sector, through our Market Development Facility. Since 2017 when this program began, we have seen very positive results. Investing in the coffee sector is a part of Australia’s broader strategy of promoting inclusive economic growth and increased private sector investment, which help Sri Lanka generate more foreign exchange. Today we are proud to support the country’s only festival dedicated to celebrating local coffee, bringing together business, investors and consumers.”
The festival featured various activities, including a panel discussion on “Chartering the Future of the Sri Lankan Coffee Industry,” with key stakeholders discussing emerging investment opportunities, café-related developments, government policy and new opportunities to promote production.
Festival participants also had the opportunity to experience coffee tasting at a mini expo showcasing locally grown specialty coffee.
Managing Director of Jetwing Hotels Dmitri Cooray said, “There is tremendous potential in our country for exceptional coffee, from cultivating top-quality beans to mastering the art of roasting, all contributing to the creation of a truly world-class cup. I am confident we will be able to position our coffee globally while providing an opportunity for the young talent in Sri Lanka.”
The LCA emphasised the importance of industry coordination as the sector expands and grows. Chairperson, Kushan Samararatne said, “The Lanka Coffee Association is committed to promoting and developing the coffee industry in Sri Lanka. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, the association works to enhance the quality and marketability of Sri Lankan coffee”
A highlight was the unveiling of the “Climate Change and Coffee in Sri Lanka” study ,commissioned by MDF. The first for Sri Lanka’s specialty coffee industry, the study identified key impacts of climate change and provided business recommendations for the industry and Government and emphasised the impact of climate change on future coffee cultivation in Sri Lanka under different future emissions scenarios.
MDF Country Director, Maryam Piracha said, “MDF has been a strong supporter of the Sri Lankan coffee industry and has worked with several key private and public sector partners over the years. We are pleased to see that our work in the sector is now bearing fruit,with increased business interest and investment. The coffee festival is an important aspect of MDF’s support to the industry and it is a pleasure to be a key collaborator for the third year running.”
The festival also facilitated a platform for coffee farmers, roasters, baristas and business leaders to foster collaboration and innovation.
