Fourth Fushan Cup International Barista Championship Set for June 17–18

The search for China’s top international barista talent reaches a peak this weekend in Fushan, Hainan—the country’s self-proclaimed ‘Coffee First Town.’ More than just another regional contest, the Fourth Fushan Cup International Barista Championship gathers the best from across continents, offering a rare public stage where craft meets competition under global standards.

From June 17 to 18, 24 elite baristas from 14 countries and regions will compete live in Fushan Coffee Culture Town, judged over 15-minute sets by seven international and Chinese judges using official WBC guidelines. This is China’s premier domestic coffee competition by reputation and scale.

What Is the Fushan Cup?

The Fushan Cup International Barista Championship is the highest-profile coffee competition in China. Taking place in Fushan—known as the nation’s Coffee First Town—this event draws not only the world’s finest baristas but also hundreds of industry insiders. It’s a platform where national pride and coffee craftsmanship collide under strict professional criteria.

Who’s Competing in 2023?

This year’s field includes 24 baristas representing Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Indonesia, Australia, Korea, Thailand, and multiple provinces and territories of China including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. Many have previously placed in other major international barista competitions, bringing proven skill and experience to the stage.

How Does the Competition Work?

Competitors have precisely 15 minutes to prepare and present four espressos, four cappuccinos, and four signature (creative) beverages—all evaluated by seven expert judges. The routines follow the official World Barista Championship (WBC) format, ensuring fairness and a rigorous standard of taste, technique, and presentation. Scores determine who takes home China’s top barista honour.

Why This Event Matters

Beyond the competition itself, the Fushan Cup has become a flagship event for the Chinese specialty coffee community. It attracts over 100 guests, including representatives from coffee associations across China, leading coffee companies, academics, and media. Their presence underscores the event’s role as both a contest and a high-level industry gathering.

What Else Happens at the Event?

The championship weekend expands beyond the stage. Organisers have scheduled a “Specialty Coffee Forum,” book signings with coffee scholars, and live latte art performances. These side events enrich the experience, turning the competition into a full celebration of coffee culture and knowledge sharing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Fushan Cup being held?

The Fourth Fushan Cup International Barista Championship takes place in Fushan Coffee Culture Town, also known as China’s Coffee First Town, located in Hainan Province. The event runs on June 17 and 18, 2023.

How many baristas are competing?

A total of 24 baristas from 14 different countries and regions—including Colombia, Brazil, Kenya, Australia, Thailand, and various parts of China—are competing in this year’s championship.

What drinks must competitors prepare?

Each barista has 15 minutes to make four espressos, four cappuccinos, and four signature (creative) drinks, all judged according to WBC standards.

Who are the judges?

Seven judges—both international and Chinese—will evaluate the competitors’ performance, focusing on taste, technique, and adherence to the WBC format.

Is this competition part of a larger event?

Yes, the competition includes additional activities such as a specialty coffee forum, book signings by coffee scholars, and live latte art shows to create a fuller coffee culture experience.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Barista Competitions

For baristas honing their craft like those at the Fushan Cup, FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera offers vibrant floral and citrus notes with a juicy body—perfect for crafting dynamic signature drinks. Their Yirgacheffe delivers bright lemon and berry tones with a clean, tea-like finish, ideal for espressos and cappuccinos alike. Both beans are single origins with distinct flavour profiles that let technical skill shine. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.