On March 10, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/Res/80/249, designating October 1 annually as "International Coffee Day." This initiative aims to raise global awareness about coffee's economic, social, and cultural significance, alongside the coffee sector's role in sustainable development.

Coffee is roasted and ground before brewing. *Giang Huy*

The resolution for International Coffee Day was proposed by Brazil and a core group of 18 nations, including Vietnam. It garnered the co-sponsorship of 97 United Nations member states, marking the highest number of co-sponsors for any draft resolution considered during the 80th session of the General Assembly.

The United Nations General Assembly highlighted coffee's dual importance as a significant agricultural commodity and a carrier of rich cultural values. In several countries, coffee-drinking traditions have achieved recognized heritage status, such as the "Turkish Coffee Culture and Tradition," which UNESCO inscribed on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The global coffee industry provides livelihoods for tens of millions of farmers, particularly in major producing nations such as Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Ethiopia.

A barista draws a dragon on an espresso cup. *Giang Huy*

This recognition of International Coffee Day is expected to enhance awareness of coffee's value, promote sustainable consumption, and preserve the cultural traditions associated with the beverage.

In Vietnam, coffee stands as a key agricultural export. The country leads globally in robusta coffee exports and is among the world's largest coffee producers. Beyond generating billions of USD in annual revenue, coffee has integrated into urban life and culture, offering unique consumption styles like phin coffee, iced milk coffee, and egg coffee, which increasingly attract international tourists.

Tuan Anh