Bringing Local Coffee to the European Stage: IPB University’s OVOC Program Makes Its Mark at World of Coffee Brussels 2026
IPB University’s One Village One CEO (OVOC) program, an initiative for regional economic empowerment based on local potential, has officially expanded its reach to the global market by participating in the prestigious international coffee exhibition, World of Coffee (WOC) Brussels 2026. The exhibition, taking place June 25th–27th, 2026, at Brussels Expo in Belgium, serves as a strategic platform for premium coffee products developed by village communities in Indonesia.
OVOC’s presence in the capital of the European Union carries a major mission: to introduce the unique, authentic flavor profiles of the Indonesian archipelago while facilitating direct trade between local farmers and international buyers, importers, and roasters who will fill the Producer Village area.
The richness of Indonesian coffee was showcased through a selection of premium coffee beans from various regions. The Arabica lineup featured the exceptional Bajawa and Garut coffees, each processed using three distinct methods: classic natural, anaerobic natural, and fullwash. Meanwhile, the robust flavor profiles were represented by a selection of Robusta coffees from Garut, West Lampung, and Pagar Alam.
Through a rigorous curation process that prioritizes premium quality, environmental sustainability, and traceability, the coffees brought by OVOC have successfully captured the attention of coffee lovers worldwide. Not only does OVOC offer unique flavors, but it also tells a compelling story behind every cup of coffee from the dedication of local farmers and the empowerment of women in rural communities to ecosystem friendly farming practices.
Dr Mohammad Iqbal Irfany, Assistant for Techno-Sociopreneurship at the Institute for Agromaritime Development and Innopreneurship Acceleration (LPA2I) at IPB University, stated that OVOC’s participation in World of Coffee Brussels 2026 is clear evidence that products rooted in local communities can compete and meet the strict standards of the international market.
“Here, we’re not just offering a commodity; we’re also showcasing the geographical identity and the commitment of local farmers to maintaining coffee quality from farm to cup,” he said.
Throughout the three day exhibition, the OVOC booth was bustling with cupping sessions involving stakeholders from the global coffee industry. This initiative is expected to lead to long term trade commitments that will directly improve the economic well being of farmers in their home regions.
Andy Rachmianto, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Belgium, said, “I hope this participation will not only benefit the participants’ business development but also have a positive ripple effect on the broader community back home.
Visit to KU Leuven
Prior to attending World of Coffee Brussels 2026, the OVOC delegation also strengthened its international network through a visit to KU Leuven, Belgium, together with the Indonesian Student Association (PPI) in Belgium and PPI Leuven. The meeting discussed the development of a sustainable coffee business ecosystem, research based knowledge transfer, and opportunities to expand market access within the European Union for products developed under the guidance of IPB University.
During the visit, the OVOC delegation presented samples of premium coffee products developed by IPB University and a catalog of local startup innovations to KU Leuven representatives. This presentation was a key part of exploring potential for research commercialization, product commercialization, and cross border partnership schemes.
“IPB University’s coffee products possess exceptional quality and a strong social narrative, particularly in terms of their unique flavor profiles and diverse origins. These characteristics hold great potential for entering the European market, which highly values sustainability and premium quality,” stated Dr Iqbal.
As a follow up to this collaboration, both parties plan to conduct joint research on sustainable coffee supply chains. In addition, KU Leuven is scheduled to make a return visit to IPB University’s Science Techno Park (STP) to observe firsthand the agromaritime-based startup and innovation ecosystem developed by IPB University. (*/Rz) (IAAS/KQA)
