The competition brought together 32 baristas from across Laos, alongside several competitors from Thailand, reflecting increasing regional interest in specialty coffee and the rising profile of Bolaven Plateau coffee. The event served as a platform for professional exchange while celebrating the full coffee value chain, from farmers to brewers.

Lao barista and café owner Bounsavath Vongpaseuth from Vientiane claimed first place, demonstrating the strengthening capabilities of local baristas. The first runner-up position was secured by Mr. Thanongsak Malysisopha, while second runner-up went to Mr. Sonexay Simmaly. A barista from Pakxong also placed among the top competitors, underscoring the growing local talent on the Bolaven Plateau.

The Paksong Drip Battle was organised by the Paksong Municipal Government and the Lao Coffee Association, in collaboration with Phetlounglod Import-Export Company. The competition aimed to promote professional brewing skills, strengthen relationships between farmers and baristas, and raise awareness of the quality and potential of Bolaven Plateau coffee.

Bounsavath began his coffee journey in 2023, inspired by family members and friends involved in the coffee business. His interest quickly expanded beyond brewing to understanding the entire coffee process, from cultivation to the final cup. This passion later led him to open Bello Coffee, a small café in Vientiane.

During a recent visit to Paksong, Bounsavath toured coffee farms and attended the annual Bolaven Plateau Coffee and Tea Festival. After learning about the Paksong Drip Battle, he partnered with Somxay Coffee Farm and applied to compete.

Reflecting on his success, Bounsavath shared insights gained through the competition:

“After competing in several stages, I learned that it’s important to understand how to handle different types of coffee beans. Secondly, we must control standards such as temperature, grinding consistency, and extraction, because small details make a big difference.”

As the winner, Bounsavath received a trophy and a first-place prize package valued at 10 million kip, including professional equipment and training opportunities.

“This experience motivates me to keep improving,” he said. “I want to share what I’ve learned with younger baristas, train my team at Bello Coffee, and help raise overall standards.”

Mr. Sengchan Khammountha, Vice President of the Lao Coffee Association, noted that the competition reflects the broader objectives of Pakxong’s annual festival.

“The Paksong Drip Battle embodies the spirit of the Coffee–Tea and Agricultural Products Festival,” he said. “We are pleased to continue this initiative, creating opportunities for young people to learn, exchange experiences, and add value to Lao coffee from farm to cup. We sincerely thank all our partners, as well as the local government and private sector, for their continued support.”

The Paksong Drip Battle 2025 reflects a wider transformation in the Lao coffee sector, where growing emphasis on skills development, quality, and collaboration is helping position Bolaven Plateau coffee more strongly at both national and regional levels.

KPL