New varieties at SCAJ 2026
KAPPI introduced diverse Indonesian coffee origins at the Specialty Coffee Association of Japan (SCAJ) 2026 exhibition at Tokyo Big Sight from October 14 to 16. The organization worked with Bank Indonesia to present curated coffees from farmers participating in the central bank’s development programmes. While many international consumers only know names such as Mandheling and Toraja, visitors at the event explored Aceh Gayo, Java, Bali, Kalosi Toraja, and kopi luwak through aroma evaluation and tasting sessions that demonstrated different processing methods. During these sessions, visitors discovered how growing conditions, coffee varieties, and processing methods contribute to distinctive flavour characteristics. One visitor observation noted that an Indonesian robusta displayed sensory characteristics reminiscent of arabica. This observation challenged assumptions about coffee quality and flavour. It reinforced the importance of introducing coffee through its actual characteristics rather than relying exclusively on familiar origin names.
| Coffee Origin/Type |
|---|
| Aceh Gayo |
| Mandheling |
| Java |
| Bali |
| Kalosi Toraja |
| Kopi Luwak |
Improving farmer and MSME capabilities
KAPPI focuses on agricultural practices to improve production consistency. Their mentoring covers soil management, fertilisation, pruning, and harvesting techniques. Roby Wibisono of KAPPI says international coffee exhibitions provide opportunities for two-way learning. Feedback from buyers and coffee professionals helps producers understand market preferences and quality expectations. This knowledge informs future farmer education and quality-development activities. The initiative connects local coffee production with international markets by combining sensory experiences with efforts to improve market knowledge and export readiness for various Indonesian micro, small and medium enterprises.
Bank Indonesia evaluated and selected the coffees before the exhibition to help MSMEs understand product differentiation, quality consistency, and international buyer expectations. Such exposure helps MSMEs prepare to enter export markets and understand buyer needs. Ricky P. Gozali, Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, wants to understand Japanese consumer preferences to expand exports. Yozo Otsuki, CEO of the Kyoto-based company Kurasu, expressed confidence in the future potential of Indonesian coffee because of the remarkable diversity offered by its producing regions. Since 2025, KAPPI has engaged in coffee diplomacy through several international initiatives. The foundation supports the Indonesian coffee ecosystem through research, innovation, community empowerment, and women’s empowerment. These activities include:
- World Expo Osaka 2025
- SCAJ 2025
- Foodex Japan 2026
- World of Coffee Bangkok 2026
- SCAJ 2026
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