At the 3rd Global Robusta Coffee Competition 2026, organised by the Greater China Coffee Elite Federation (GCEF), Vietnamese Robusta coffee secured 9 of the 10 spots awarded to international entries in the International Excellence category in the Top 20 finals.

This year’s competition attracted 50 high-quality Robusta coffee samples, including 27 from China, 19 from Viet Nam and four from other countries. Among the Vietnamese entries, 13 came from members of the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Association.

The entries underwent rigorous selection from the 2025 - 2026 crop, with coffee cherries hand-picked at full ripeness and subjected to meticulous processing. The green beans were required to be uniform, free of defects as well as undesirable flavour characteristics.

High-quality coffee processing at Aeroco Coffee Farm in Dak Lak.

Following the community evaluation round, the coffee samples were tasted and scored directly by experts, industry professionals combined with coffee enthusiasts. Cupping was conducted strictly in accordance with the technical Robusta standards set by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI).

As a result, Vietnamese coffee performed strongly in the international category, accounting for 9 of the 10 entries that secured spots in the Top 20 finals. Notably, members of the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Association contributed six of these entries to the Top 20.

The positive reception and high evaluation by the judging panel along with coffee community provide compelling evidence of the exceptional quality of Vietnamese Robusta coffee.

According to the organisers’ schedule, following the conclusion of the public and expert evaluation rounds conducted from August 26 to September 27, 2026, the Global Robusta Awards 2026 results announcement alongside awards ceremony will be held in mid-October 2026. The Vietnamese Robusta entries are expected to make a strong showing in the final round, further affirming the brand and position of Buon Ma Thuot - Dak Lak coffee in particular together with Vietnamese Robusta coffee in general in international markets.

Translated by KHUONG THAO