The local two-day regional selection for the 2026 WCBC (World Coffee Blending Championship) concluded yesterday at the public Macao University of Tourism (UTM) on its Mong Ha campus, with four contestants selected to represent Macau at the national finals in the Chinese mainland.
Organised by UTM’s Institute for Executive and Professional Development (IEPD), in conjunction with the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) and the Macau Coffee and Tea Association, the two-day competition focused on coffee bean blending and sensory evaluation.
It also included public tasting and voting sessions, providing a platform for industry professionals and young talent to exchange skills while allowing the public to learn more about specialty coffee.
During yesterday’s awards ceremony, Xu Jinhuang from Guangdong received the contest’s top prize, followed by local contestants Mok Wa Hun and Leong Seng Meng, in second and third place respectively. Meanwhile, Lee Kwok-ho from Hong Kong won the popularity vote.
The competition was part of UTM’s efforts to combine skills training, professional certification and industry exchanges, according to a statement by the public university yesterday.
Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Xu said: “Our company produces coffee, and our two bosses have received good reviews on this award”, adding that she wanted to do her best as a member of the company and gain experience for next year’s competition.
She described the local contest as different to others, praising the atmosphere, opening ceremony, fans and fellow competitors. Reflecting on her win, Xu expressed gratitude to her boss for providing her with support and said she was proud of herself.
Xu also observed a difference in local coffee preferences: “I think Macau people prefer coffee with less sugar”.
The four selected contestants will represent Macau at the subsequent WCBC national finals in the Chinese mainland. The statement said that the competition also aims to connect coffee culture with tourism experiences and further develop Macau’s identity as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
The statement did not mention when and where the national finals will take place.
(From left to right) Lee Kwok-ho, Xu Jinhuang, Mok Wa Hun, and Leong Seng Meng pose with their trophies during yesterday’s two-day regional selection for the 2026 WCBC (World Coffee Blending Championship) at the public Macao University of Tourism (UTM) in Mong Ha. – Photo: Khalel Vallo
