Five domestic regions are competing this year with varieties such as pacamara (authentic to the country), geisha, bourbon, and SL28, with the aim of looking for a greater projection of the bean in international markets where the local product is quoted at higher prices for its excellence.

The competition, which recognizes the best specialty coffees in the country, is in its final stretch, and ISC authorities noted that 21 new producers are among the competitors in this year’s competition.

Hailing from five regions, 41% of the competing varieties are pacamara, 11% geisha, 10% SL28, 5% bourbon and 33% blends.

The national jury selection is expected to take place from May 13-17, followed by the international stage from May 20-23. The awards ceremony will be held on May 23, an ISC source indicated.

The Cup of Excellence is one of the most prestigious international competitions organized by the Alliance for Coffee Excellence (ACE) and Cup Of Excellence (CoE), and in the country it is arranged with government support through the ISC and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG).

The head of ISC, Carolina Padilla, assures that coffee consumption in El Salvador dates back more than 200 years, and at the end of the 2022/2023 harvest reports an upturn of 8.2%, while 88% of the population considers the bean as part of the basic food basket.

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