This Year Marks the 160th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Between Japan and Italy; "Italian Espresso Association" Newly Established

The International Coffee Tasters Association - Japan (IIAC Japan), located in Minato-ku, Tokyo, will establish the "Italia Espresso Association" (IEA) on July 17th of this year, commemorating the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy in 2026. Since its establishment in 2008, IIAC Japan has been dedicated to promoting Italian coffee culture by training and certifying cafe tasters and baristas based on the standards of the Italian IIAC. Currently, there are approximately 1,000 members and 150 certified baristas active in Japan.

The IEA, to be established this time, aims to preserve the quality of Italian espresso and the value of Italian espresso bar culture, while conveying its charm more intimately and establishing it as a culture that aligns with Japanese lifestyles. IIAC Japan will continue to operate its education and certification systems, developing unique standards adapted to the Japanese market while ensuring the certified quality of the Italian IIAC.

Italia Espresso Association Logo

[Objectives for Establishing IEA]

The IEA aims to spread espresso culture not as a "specialty item" but as a culture that naturally takes root in Japanese daily life.

- Establish Italian espresso and bar culture within Japanese society. - Promote it as an everyday choice, not just a "special cup." - Foster a new bar culture that aligns with Japanese lifestyles.

[What is Italian Espresso Culture?]

In Italy, espresso is not just coffee; it is cherished as a small cultural element that regulates the rhythm of daily life. Before work, during breaks, or when needing a change of pace, people stop by neighborhood bars, enjoy a cup of espresso at the counter, and engage in casual conversation with baristas and regulars. This differs from cafes where people stay for extended periods, fostering a communication culture that is "short, deep, and integrated into daily life." The IEA will develop this unique Italian cultural value into a form that suits Japanese urban life and work styles, proposing it as a new, uniquely Japanese bar culture.

About International Coffee Tasters Association - Japan (IIAC JAPAN)

This organization aims to improve the quality and recognition of "Made in Italy" espresso (coffee) in Japan and to expand the base of BAR Italiano culture. Established in 2008, its purpose is to train and certify cafe tasters. Japan is the first branch of IIAC, which comprises members from 42 countries. Currently, there are approximately 1,000 members and 150 certified baristas active in Japan.

(HP: https://coffeetasters.jp/)

● Past Activities (Excerpts)

Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai - Italy Pavilion

As an official sponsor of the Italy Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, IIAC operated the official cafe and gelato shop "Caffe’&Gelato Italia by IIACJ" within the pavilion grounds. In addition to drinks like espresso, gelato was also sold, generating significant buzz on social media shortly after the opening.

FOODEX JAPAN

IIAC is also responsible for providing espresso at the Italian Pavilion, operated by the Italian Trade Promotion Section, every year at FOODEX JAPAN.

At FOODEX JAPAN 2026, held in March 2026, a tasting of 9 types of espresso brewed by professional baristas was conducted. Over 800 people were served espresso over three days.

About IIAC (International Institute of Coffee Tasters)

IIAC – International Institute of Coffee Tasters is a non-profit association established in Italy in 1993 with the aim of establishing and disseminating scientific methods for measuring the perceptual and sensory value of coffee. IIAC has accumulated tasting and perceptual analysis techniques targeting "espresso," a symbol of "made in Italy," and has gained support from the coffee industry and major producing countries such as Colombia. In 1999, it established the "Italian Espresso Specialists" course to train and certify baristas.

Our association, along with a scientific committee composed of university professors, engineers, and renowned experts, investigates and promotes various reforms in the coffee field. In 2008, the International Coffee Tasters Association - Japan (IIAC JAPAN) was established, and began holding workshops, events, and disseminating information to promote and develop high-quality Italian espresso in Japan. Additionally, branches have been established in Spain and Brazil, expanding its reach globally.

Carlo Odello, President

Comment from Carlo Odello, President of IIAC (International Institute of Coffee Tasters)

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the establishment of the Italian Coffee Association in Japan.

The birth of this association is a major milestone in spreading Italian coffee culture in Japan. Italian coffee is not just an excellent product; it is a culture that connects people and brings enriching moments to daily life.

To truly convey its value, passion along with solid expertise is essential. That is precisely why we place great expectations on the close collaboration between the newly established Italian Coffee Association and IIAC Japan.

Our common goal is to spread the authentic espresso culture based on deep technical knowledge and scientific sensory evaluation. By correctly conveying what constitutes "perfect Italian espresso," we believe we can deliver an authentic experience to Japanese enthusiasts and industry professionals. By combining your passion for dissemination with IIAC's expertise in sensory evaluation, I am confident that the future of Italian coffee in Japan will become even richer.

Carlo Odello President, International Institute of Coffee Tasters

2026 marks the 160th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy.