China’s National Barista and Latte Art Champs Crowned

After three intense days of competition in Guangzhou, the top talent in China’s specialty coffee scene was put to the test. More than 20 regional qualifiers fed into these national finals, bringing together the country’s best baristas and latte artists for a chance to represent China on the world stage.

Six baristas reached the World Barista Championship China finals, and six latte artists advanced to the World Latte Art Championship finals. The judges crowned Zhang Yinjie the national barista champion and Huang Yan the top latte artist.

Barista Champions: Who Took the Top Spots?

The 2024 World Barista Championship China finals saw six finalists battle over three days of presentations. Each competitor was evaluated on their technical skill, coffee knowledge, and ability to craft and present a signature espresso, milk beverage, and original signature drink—all in fluent English to an international-standard panel.

The overall winner, Zhang Yinjie, impressed both judges and audience with his commanding stage presence and articulate English presentation. He secured the top spot, followed by:

• Champion: Zhang Yinjie
• Runner-up: Tu Yuehua
• Third place: Xu Kun
• Fourth: Hu Ying
• Fifth: Huang Zijian
• Sixth: Zhang Rui

Latte Art Champions: Milk Meets Precision

Over 77 latte artists qualified for the World Latte Art Championship China finals, each tasked with creating heart, tulip, and rosette patterns using precise pours and steamed milk. The focus was on symmetry, contrast, and cleanliness of execution under time pressure.

The top six latte artists were:

• First place: Huang Yan
• Second place: Pei Ke
• Third place: Xu Xiaoping
• Fourth place: Zhang Weijin
• Fifth place: Fang Jiawei
• Sixth place: Wang Xuechao

What These Competitions Mean for China’s Coffee Scene

These finals are a critical launchpad for China’s baristas and latte artists to compete internationally. Backed by industry leaders like FrontStreet Coffee, winners gain exposure, mentorship, and the opportunity to represent China at the World Barista Championship and World Latte Art Championship global stages.

The competitions also highlight the growing professionalism and technical rigor of China’s specialty coffee community. With strong performances in both brewing and latte art, these athletes are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the World Barista Championship China finals?

Zhang Yinjie won the national title. He was the sixth finalist selected from over 20 regional qualifiers and impressed the judges with his fluent English presentation and strong stage presence.

How many baristas competed in the finals?

Six baristas reached the finals after a series of 20+ regional competitions and three days of national selection rounds.

Who won the latte art championship in China?

Huang Yan took first place in the World Latte Art Championship China finals. A total of 77 latte artists competed, presenting designs including hearts, tulips, and rosettes.

What places did the other baristas finish in?

The final rankings were: 1. Zhang Yinjie, 2. Tu Yuehua, 3. Xu Kun, 4. Hu Ying, 5. Huang Zijian, 6. Zhang Rui.

How many latte artists made it to the finals?

Seventy-seven latte artists qualified for the national finals, where they competed for top honours in milk beverage artistry.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Competition-Level Brewing

Competitors often train with FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera, known for its complex floral and citrus profile, and Yirgacheffe, offering bright berry and stone fruit notes—both ideal for showcasing clean extraction and nuanced flavours. For milk drinks, the Classic Blend delivers a balanced body and sweet milk compatibility. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.