by InTrieste
As the coffee industry gathers in Trieste for the highly anticipated Triestespresso Expo, industry leaders, regulators, and stakeholders convene to discuss one of the most pressing issues on the horizon: the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Set to drastically change how coffee is sourced, processed, and sold in Europe, the regulation aims to combat deforestation and promote sustainability. But as this monumental shift approaches, the question remains—are we truly ready?
This year’s Expo kicked off with a packed inaugural conference titled “EUDR: Are We Really Prepared for the New European Regulation?” Leading authorities and industry experts explored the implications of the EUDR and debated the sector’s readiness for its stringent new requirements.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by local dignitaries including Antonio Paoletti, President of the Venice Giulia Chamber of Commerce, and Roberto Dipiazza, Mayor of Trieste, marked the start of the Expo. The event sets the tone for three days of workshops, conferences, and hands-on demonstrations that will focus not only on compliance with the EUDR but also on how the coffee industry can evolve in a more sustainable direction.
A Focus on Deforestation-Free Coffee
The spotlight on sustainability was further highlighted by Pierpaolo Roberti, Regional Councillor for Local Autonomy, Public Service, Security, and Immigration. He emphasized that the EUDR is not just a regulatory hurdle but an opportunity for coffee producers to rethink their entire supply chain. “This regulation will push us to innovate and ensure that the coffee industry can thrive without harming the environment,” Roberti stated.
Arianna Mingardi, President of the Trieste Coffee Association, echoed these sentiments, noting that the future of coffee must involve a transparent, traceable supply chain. “It’s not just about compliance,” she said, “It’s about ensuring that we are delivering a product that consumers can trust—one that does not come at the cost of the planet’s forests.”
Massimiliano Fabian, Vice President of the European Coffee Federation, emphasized the complexity of adapting to the new regulations. “The EUDR challenges everyone, from coffee growers in tropical regions to roasters and retailers here in Europe. It’s a global challenge,” he noted during the panel moderated by Francesco De Filippo, head of ANSA FVG.
Sensory Science and Coffee’s Future
Beyond regulatory talks, the Expo also featured workshops that delved into the science of coffee tasting and production. In one session, led by Alberto Polojac, National Coordinator of S.C.A. Italy, participants learned about the latest in sensory evaluation with the unveiling of the new C.V.A. methodology. Meanwhile, an interactive workshop guided by Edy Bieker and Arianna Mingardi allowed attendees to explore “Flavours in a Cup,” taking them on a multi-sensory journey through different coffee profiles.
In the same hall, master baristas demonstrated the Turkish IBRIK method, a traditional coffee extraction technique, while a workshop on compostable capsules examined the industry’s growing need to embrace circular economy models.
The Global Perspective
Looking beyond Europe, Friday’s conference will turn its focus to Turkey’s booming coffee market. Experts will explore the evolving dynamics between Trieste and Turkey, which have a long history of economic ties, and discuss opportunities for Italian exporters to tap into this expanding market.
Antonio Paoletti, alongside Turkish Attaché Kadir Eser, will open discussions on how espresso culture is spreading in Turkey. They will be joined by Cenk Girginol, a coffee market expert, who will dive into the unique characteristics of Turkish coffee consumption.
Coffee Innovation for Business Growth
The Expo also offers valuable insights for baristas and business owners looking to elevate their coffee offerings. A series of “Training Pills” sessions, led by Elisa Caria from the University of Coffee at illycaffè, will cover everything from recipe innovation to increasing the average customer spend. These quick-fire sessions aim to give business owners practical tools to differentiate their offerings and thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
Perhaps the most exciting for local baristas is the Capo in B Championship, a popular contest where participants vie for the title of the best cappuccino in a glass—an art form beloved in Trieste.
Rwanda’s Coffee Excellence
As the Expo wraps up its first day, attention turns to Rwanda’s coffee plantations. Coffee expert Andrej Godina will lead a cupping session featuring eight coffees sourced from Rwandan farms. This exclusive event is part of a broader initiative supported by the ICU (Institute for University Cooperation) aimed at introducing European roasters to the unique qualities of Rwandan coffee. It underscores the Expo’s commitment to showcasing coffee’s global diversity while fostering sustainable trade relationships.
A Look Ahead
With the EUDR on the horizon and the ever-increasing demands for sustainability, the coffee industry faces both challenges and opportunities. The Triestespresso Expo serves as a reminder that innovation and collaboration are key to navigating this new era.
As the Expo unfolds, industry insiders and casual coffee enthusiasts alike will leave with more than just a fresh brew in their cups—they’ll take home fresh insights into how their beloved drink impacts the world.
Friday Highlights at the Triestespresso Expo
- 10:30 AM: “Opportunities from the World: The Coffee Market in Turkey” (Illy Hall)
- 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: B2B Meetings: “Creating Partnerships and Expanding Business” (Illy Hall)
- 1:00 PM: Capo in B Championship (Workshop & Events Area)
Interviews: Omar Zidarich, president of the Italian group Torrefattiori Caffe; Serena Tonel, deputy mayor of Trieste; regional councilor for Immigration, Pierpaolo Roberti
