The Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor (HICH) in the Shanghai Hongqiao International Central Business District, is transforming the coffee industry through innovative technology and strategic alliances as part of the Silk Road e-commerce initiative. It is establishing new benchmarks for transparency and efficiency in coffee trading.
By monitoring each stage of the coffee bean's journey — from farm to cup — its blockchain-based system guarantees full transparency. Buyers can conveniently access real-time information about their coffee beans via the Shanghai International Trade Single Window, enhancing consumer trust and strengthening quality control.
Eleven batches of green coffee beans from countries like Panama and Ethiopia are currently being tracked on the blockchain. This technology also enables instant payments via smart contracts, helping streamline financial transactions.
In another major step, the HICH has partnered with Shanghai's human resources bureau to establish global standards for barista certification. More than 7,000 baristas have completed training, and their certifications are now securely stored on the blockchain to guarantee uniformity across the globe.
The HICH's dual-platform approach integrates both online and offline resources. Its digital platform facilitates connections between supply and demand, providing supply chain services and human resources support. Featuring over 109 companies and 600 products, it aims to connect more than 1,000 coffee shops and achieve a trading value of 3 billion yuan ($422.44 million).
The Hongqiao International Central Business District is also attracting technology and trade firms, encouraging innovative collaborations across industries for the coffee market. This change is attracting a new group of coffee buyers, such as professionals from research and technology fields.
As a vital platform for the Silk Road e-commerce initiative, the HICH is advancing the coffee industry while also establishing itself as a key player in a technology-driven ecosystem. By combining innovation with expertise, it is setting a new standard for international coffee trade.
