Panama is preparing for one of its most internationally visible tourism events in years as the country gets ready to host the World of Coffee Panama 2026 from October 23 to 25. More than 10,000 to 15,000 visitors are expected to arrive, including coffee professionals, buyers, and enthusiasts from over 60 countries. For a nation where tourism is a major economic engine, this type of globally recognized event is far more than a cultural celebration – it is a direct catalyst for local economic activity.
A Global Coffee Showcase With Local Impact
The World of Coffee festival will bring together the entire coffee value chain, from Geisha producers to global machinery manufacturers. This consolidation of the industry is exactly the kind of event that puts Panama’s name on the map for thousands of travelers who may be visiting the country for the first time.
Airport manager José Ruiz Blanco highlighted the influx of international visitors expected for the event, reinforcing how strategic it is for Panama’s tourism sector. Every arrival translates into hotel stays, restaurant visits, transportation hires, and tours that circulate money directly into local communities.
Beyond Coffee: Panama’s Growing Role in Cacao and Chocolate
Although Panama is already globally known for its award-winning Geisha coffee, this event shines a light on another rising star: cacao. The fair will include chocolate and cacao exhibitors, offering tourists a broader view of Panama’s agricultural diversity. According to industry leaders, this is a growing sector with potential to attract new waves of culinary tourism.
A Milestone for Latin America: Hosting the 2026 World Barista Championship
For the first time in history, the World Barista Championship will be held in Latin America – right here in Panama. Traditionally hosted in Europe or Asia, bringing this event to Panama elevates the country’s visibility within the global specialty coffee world.
Industry leaders like Ricardo Koyner from the Specialty Coffee Association emphasize that these events gather farmers, aficionados, global buyers, and high-profile brands in one place. For visitors, it is a rare chance to immerse themselves in the birthplace of some of the world’s highest-rated coffees.
Why Tourism Events Like This Matter for Panama
Events of this scale can have a significant ripple effect on tourism sectors. International attendees often extend their trips to explore Panama’s cultural and natural attractions. Popular destinations such as Boquete and Volcan (https://www.casasolution.com/community/volcan/) gain extra exposure due to their association with coffee tourism, while other regions like Boquete (https://www.casasolution.com/boquete/) benefit from increased visibility and visitor demand.
One visitor becomes many through word-of-mouth, social media, and repeat travel. These thousands of high-spending tourists inject substantial capital into hotels, restaurants, transportation companies, tour operators, and local businesses, all of which create jobs and support economic growth.
A Positive Step Forward
Hosting the World of Coffee Panama 2026 positions the country as a global destination for experiential tourism linked to culture, agriculture, and gastronomy. It signals that Panama is not only exporting its world-famous Geisha but also welcoming visitors to experience the landscape, people, and traditions behind it.
By attracting thousands of travelers, the event reinforces Panama’s role as one of the most dynamic tourism hubs in the region.
Written on November 30, 2025
