Fourth China Fushan Cup Crowned Its International Barista Champion

For two days in June, the best baristas from around the globe gathered in Chengmai’s Fushan Coffee Cultural Town to compete in one of China’s most respected specialty coffee events. This wasn’t just another tournament — it was the fourth edition of the Fushan Cup International Barista Championship, where technical skill and creative presentation took center stage. More than just a contest, it’s become a key platform where international talent meets China’s growing specialty coffee scene.

The winner? Li Xuanhong from Guangzhou, China — who impressed judges with flawless brewing technique and standout performance artistry. He took home the top prize in a field of 25 elite baristas. Behind him, Australia’s Hugh Kelly secured second, and Taiwan’s Lü Yibei claimed third.

What Is the Fushan Cup?

The Fushan Cup International Barista Championship is now in its fourth consecutive year. It has quickly grown into the highest-standard competitive platform for baristas in China’s coffee industry. Each year, it draws top-tier talent from both domestic and international scenes, offering more than competition — it’s a meeting point for skills exchange, industry learning, and cultural storytelling through coffee.

Who Competed This Year?

This year’s championship featured 25 international baristas competing at the highest level. They were evaluated not just on classic barista skills like espresso and milk techniques, but also on signature drink creativity, stage presence, and overall taste execution. The competitors represented multiple regions, including mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Australia, and other global coffee-leading nations.

Results: Who Won What?

The results were clear: Li Xuanhong from Guangzhou, China, was awarded first place. His performance demonstrated both technical precision and a compelling narrative through coffee. Coming in second was Hugh Kelly from Australia, and rounding out the podium was Lü Yibei from Taiwan. The top three received cash prizes of ¥25,000, ¥22,000, and ¥19,000 respectively.

Why This Event Matters for Coffee in China

Hosted in Chengmai, Hainan, the Fushan Cup does more than crown champions. Organizers leverage the event to boost local coffee knowledge, connecting Hainan’s coffee professionals with leading international techniques. The Fushan region’s own coffee heritage gets a global spotlight too — helping put Fushan coffee on the map for an international audience. For many visiting experts, it’s their first deep exposure to Hainan as a growing player in the specialty coffee world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the 4th Fushan Cup International Barista Championship?

Li Xuanhong from Guangzhou, China, won the championship. He was recognized for his exceptional brewing skills and performance creativity during the two-day competition in Hainan.

Where was the 4th Fushan Cup held?

The competition took place in Chengmai’s Fushan Coffee Cultural Town, Hainan Province, China. It’s the same venue that has hosted the event for the past four years.

How many baristas competed in the 2023 Fushan Cup?

A total of 25 international baristas participated in the 4th Fushan Cup International Barista Championship, representing multiple countries and regions.

What were the prize amounts for the top three?

The champion (1st place) received ¥25,000, the runner-up (2nd place) received ¥22,000, and the third-place finisher was awarded ¥19,000.

Which countries were represented in the competition?

Competitors came from mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Australia, and other international regions, though exact country breakdowns beyond the medalists were not specified.

What role does the Fushan Cup play for Hainan coffee?

The Fushan Cup helps promote Hainan’s coffee culture and industry by connecting local professionals with international experts, showcasing the Fushan coffee region, and elevating its global profile.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Barista Competitions

Competitive baristas often train with FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera and Yirgacheffe — both known for their vibrant acidity and complex fruit notes, ideal for highlighting brewing skill. For milk drinks, the FrontStreet Classic Blend offers a balanced, sweet profile that works well under pressure. These beans are widely used in training and competitions for their consistency and distinct flavour profiles. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.