Coffee from the Central American friendship countries occupies the top market in Taiwan Central News Agency CNA |
The 2024 Taiwan International Coffee Expo started today, November 15. The event features the “Central American Pavilion,” which highlights specialty coffees from Guatemala and Belize. Chen Liguo, Executive Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hopes this expo will strengthen economic ties between Taiwan and Central America.
The expo runs from November 15 to 18 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall. The opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including ambassadors and officials from Central American countries. Chen Liguo emphasized the rich offerings from the Central American Pavilion. Visitors can taste various coffee styles, including Italian coffee and handmade brews, showcasing skills in latte art and coffee mixology.
Guatemala Coffee Association Chairman Jose Tulio Gonzalez announced that five coffee producers from Guatemala are demonstrating their products. He aims to help Taiwanese consumers become familiar with Guatemalan coffee, renowned for its quality.
Xu Shaohui, director of the Central American Economic and Trade Office, highlighted Guatemala’s diverse climate and terrain. This region produces top-quality Arabica coffee beans, especially from the volcanic highlands, prized for their flavor and aroma.
How does the Central American Pavilion at the expo promote cultural exchange through coffee?
Interview with Chen Liguo: Strengthening Ties at the 2024 Taiwan International Coffee Expo
Date: November 15, 2024
Location: Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Chen. The 2024 Taiwan International Coffee Expo has just begun. What are your expectations for this year’s event, particularly regarding the Central American Pavilion?
Chen Liguo: Thank you for having me. We are optimistic about this expo as it serves as a vital platform for enhancing economic ties between Taiwan and Central American countries. The Central American Pavilion, in particular, showcases the richness and diversity of specialty coffees from Guatemala and Belize, and we hope this will spark greater interest among Taiwanese consumers and the coffee industry.
Interviewer: The Central American Pavilion features a variety of activities, including coffee tastings and demonstrations. Can you elaborate on what visitors can expect?
Chen Liguo: Certainly! Visitors will have the unique opportunity to taste different styles of coffee, including traditional Italian preparations and expertly crafted handmade brews. We’re excited to feature skilled baristas showcasing their talents in latte art and coffee mixology. It’s not just about tasting; it’s about experiencing the craftsmanship that goes into coffee-making.
Interviewer: That sounds fantastic. We’ve also heard that five coffee producers from Guatemala are present to demonstrate their offerings. How important are these demonstrations in educating Taiwanese consumers about Guatemalan coffee?
Chen Liguo: It’s incredibly important. Chairman Jose Tulio Gonzalez from the Guatemala Coffee Association aims to familiarize Taiwanese consumers with Guatemalan coffee, which is celebrated for its exceptional quality. These demonstrations allow visitors to engage directly with producers, learn about the intricacies of the coffee, and appreciate what makes Guatemalan coffee truly special.
Interviewer: Xu Shaohui mentioned the diverse climate and terrain of Guatemala being crucial for coffee cultivation. How does this diversity contribute to the products featured at the expo?
Chen Liguo: Guatemala’s unique climate and volcanic highlands are key factors in producing high-quality Arabica beans, renowned for their distinctive flavor profiles and rich aromas. These attributes significantly enhance the coffees being showcased here. We believe that when consumers learn about the origin and qualities of these beans, they will be more invested in trying them.
Interviewer: What other highlights can attendees look forward to in the Central American Pavilion?
Chen Liguo: Attendees will benefit from various lectures by renowned coffee champions where they can glean insights into coffee production and tasting techniques. Additionally, we have a fun element with our pavilion mascot, “Coffee Cat,” serving a special wheel cake, adding a delightful experience for families and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Interviewer: This expo seems to be an exciting opportunity for both coffee lovers and industry professionals. What message would you like to convey about the importance of such international events?
Chen Liguo: International events like the Taiwan International Coffee Expo are crucial for fostering connections and understanding between different cultures. They provide a space for industry professionals to network, share ideas, and innovate, while consumers get to explore and appreciate global coffee offerings. We are thrilled to see the exchange of knowledge and passion happening here, and we hope it leads to lasting relationships and collaborations.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Chen. We look forward to seeing how this expo unfolds.
Chen Liguo: Thank you for having me, and I invite everyone to come and enjoy what the expo has to offer!
The Central American Pavilion features renowned coffee champions, providing lectures and tastings. Visitors can also enjoy a special wheel cake made by the pavilion’s mascot, “Coffee Cat.”
This expo presents an exciting opportunity for coffee lovers and industry professionals to explore Central American coffee and foster international connections.