Programme
Programme 2026
Applied science across the coffee value chain
The ICC 2026 programme is designed to connect rigorous research with the strategic, technical and operational realities of the coffee sector.
The programme brings together contributions from science, industry and practice in a format that values clarity, relevance and interdisciplinary exchange.
Rather than treating coffee as a set of isolated topics, ICC approaches it as a connected system. Climate, agriculture, processing, trade, technology, sensory science, consumer behaviour, ethics and regulation are understood not as separate conversations, but as interdependent forces shaping the future of the sector.
The programme for the upcoming edition will be published in full shortly. The thematic structure is already defined and reflects the major challenges and opportunities currently facing global coffee.
Programme Overview
Tracks
Track 1: Climate & Agriculture
Climate Resilience and Agricultural Innovation
This track explores how coffee cultivation is responding to increasing environmental pressure and structural change. Topics include climate adaptation strategies, resilient agronomic systems, biodiversity preservation, innovative agricultural technologies and measurable environmental outcomes.
It is especially relevant to producers, agronomists, sustainability professionals, traders and all those working at the origin-facing end of the coffee value chain.
Track 2: Sustainability & Processing
Sustainable Processing and Circular Economy
This track examines how processing can become more efficient, resource-conscious and regenerative. Topics include zero-waste processing, water management, energy use, by-product valorisation and practical strategies to reduce environmental impact while maintaining quality and viability.
It is particularly relevant to producers, processors, exporters, roasters, technology providers and sustainability specialists.
Track 3: Market & Consumers
Consumer Trends and Market Dynamics
This track focuses on the changing relationship between markets, value perception and consumer behaviour. Themes include evolving preferences, premium and specialty segments, transparency, certification, price volatility and the behavioural impact of communication and market positioning.
It is especially relevant to roasters, marketers, brand leaders, traders, retailers, café operators and researchers working at the intersection of consumption and strategy.
Track 4: Technology & Innovation
Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0
This track explores how digital tools and emerging technologies are changing coffee production, traceability, quality management and commercial engagement. Topics include AI and machine learning, blockchain, smart farming, digital quality assessment, e-commerce and data-driven decision-making.
It is particularly relevant to technology providers, equipment manufacturers, supply chain professionals, producers, roasters and digital innovators.
Track 5: Ethics & Society
Social Equity and Ethical Sourcing
This track addresses the human and social dimensions of coffee. Themes include fair and direct trade models, gender equity, living income, labour rights, community development and the social implications of sourcing decisions.
It is relevant to sustainability professionals, NGOs, policy actors, importers, exporters, roasters and all businesses committed to responsible long-term value creation.
Track 6: Trade & Regulation
Trade, Market Dynamics and Regulatory Impacts
This track focuses on the frameworks that increasingly shape how coffee moves, is marketed and is governed. Topics include international trade agreements, tariff implications, regulatory developments across key regions, novel food regulation and compliance with the Nagoya Protocol.
It is especially relevant to exporters, importers, legal and compliance teams, policy stakeholders, ingredient developers and senior decision-makers navigating an evolving global framework.
A detailed schedule, speaker list and session overview will be published in due course. Until then, the thematic tracks provide a clear indication of the intellectual direction and practical relevance of ICC 2026.
Sessions
To be announced
Speakers
To be announced
Schedule
To be announced