Malaysia’s café and beverage industry is set for a major highlight this May as the International Café and Beverage Show 2026 (ICBS) returns for its fifth edition.
Taking place from 7 to 9 May at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, the event promises to bring together a dynamic mix of global brands, industry professionals, and café enthusiasts.
As the country’s only dedicated café and beverage trade show, ICBS has evolved into a key platform that reflects and shapes the direction of café culture in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia. This year’s edition is expected to be the biggest yet, reinforcing Malaysia’s growing status as a regional café hub.
A Global Gathering of Industry Players
ICBS 2026 will host an impressive lineup of participants, including 650 brands, 1,000 baristas, and 2,000 café owners. With an estimated 13,000 attendees from 55 countries, the event highlights the global interest in Southeast Asia’s thriving beverage scene.
Organised by Montgomery Asia in collaboration with Barista Guild Asia, Eciatto, and HJC Global Tea Fair, the show serves as a hub for networking, innovation, and business growth.
For industry players, ICBS is more than just an exhibition — it is where partnerships are formed, ideas are exchanged, and future trends take shape.
Spotlight on the First-Ever Tea Segment
One of the most exciting highlights of ICBS 2026 is the introduction of a dedicated tea segment, developed in collaboration with HJC Global Tea Fair. This marks the first time in the event’s history that tea has been given its own focused platform.
The addition reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences, as tea gains prominence alongside coffee in modern café menus. From specialty teas to ready-to-drink innovations, the segment will showcase global trends that are reshaping the beverage landscape.
As demand for premium and functional beverages continues to grow, tea is no longer seen as a secondary option but as a core offering within the café industry.
Industry Growth Driving Innovation
The timing of ICBS 2026 aligns with significant growth in Malaysia’s foodservice sector. Valued at USD 14.75 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 27.50 billion by 2030, the industry is experiencing rapid expansion.
Within this growth, beverage segments are playing a crucial role. The ready-to-drink tea market alone is expected to see notable increases in the coming years, reflecting changing consumer habits and a growing appetite for diverse drink options.
These trends highlight why events like ICBS are essential — they provide a platform for businesses to adapt, innovate, and stay ahead in a competitive market.
Competitions That Elevate Talent
ICBS 2026 is not just about products and exhibitions; it is also a celebration of skill and creativity. The Malaysia Open Coffee Championship (MOCC) will once again take center stage, featuring 38 competitors across three categories:
- Brewers Cup
- Latte Art Championship
- Barista Championship
These competitions play a vital role in nurturing local talent and raising industry standards. They also serve as a stepping stone for baristas aiming to gain recognition on a larger stage.
Celebrating Malaysian Creativity
In addition to coffee-focused competitions, ICBS continues to highlight local innovation through the Unite Malaysian Taste Challenge 2026. This competition invites mixologists to create unique mocktails inspired by Malaysia’s diverse flavours and cultural heritage.
By encouraging participants to experiment with local ingredients, the challenge showcases the richness of Malaysian taste profiles while promoting homegrown creativity. It also reinforces ICBS’s role as a platform for uniquely Malaysian concepts to shine.
A Platform Shaping the Future
Over the past decade, Malaysia’s café scene has evolved significantly, moving beyond traditional chains to include independent cafés, specialty roasters, and concept-driven spaces. Today’s consumers are more discerning, often seeking unique café experiences and travelling specifically to discover them.
ICBS sits at the heart of this ecosystem, acting as both a reflection of current trends and a catalyst for future innovation. It is where new ideas emerge, setting the tone for the next phase of café culture in the region.
Entry to ICBS 2026 is free, with registration now open. While trade visitors can attend all three days, the event will also open to the public on 9 May, offering everyone a chance to explore the latest in coffee, tea, and beverage innovation.
Whether you are an industry professional, café owner, or simply a coffee enthusiast, ICBS 2026 promises an engaging and inspiring experience.
As the café and beverage industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear — ICBS remains at the forefront, bringing together the people, ideas, and innovations shaping the future of Southeast Asia’s café culture.
For more information on ICBS 2026, exhibition opportunities, partnership enquiries, and visitor passes, visit https://intl-cbs.com/.
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