KAMPALA, April 17, 2026 — The International Women’s Coffee Alliance [IWCA] has cancelled its 2026 Global Convention, citing severe disruptions to international air travel linked to current geopolitical tensions, especially in the Middle East.
The convention, which had been scheduled to take place from May 12 to 14 in Bali, Indonesia, was expected to bring together members from across the global coffee sector.
In a recent statement, IWCA said the decision followed mounting travel challenges affecting its international membership, particularly those based in Africa, Europe and the Americas.
“Current geopolitical conditions have created severe disruptions to international air travel, making it impossible for the majority of our global membership to travel safely and affordably to Indonesia,” the organisation said.
IWCA, which operates across 37 chapters on six continents, said proceeding with the event under such constraints would undermine its core mission of fostering global collaboration within the coffee industry.
“We cannot hold a truly global gathering when geography and geopolitics prevent most of our network from participating,” the statement added.
Despite the cancellation, IWCA confirmed that its programmes and activities will continue throughout the year. These include its “Build Bridges, Open Doors” campaign, aimed at strengthening network infrastructure and leadership, as well as the Women in Coffee Access and Training Grant Fund, which supports chapter-led initiatives.
The organisation will also maintain its presence at key industry events, including a breakfast meeting at the World of Coffee San Diego on April 11 and a reception during World of Coffee Brussels in June.
IWCA expressed appreciation to its Indonesia chapter, partners and sponsors, including the Bali Beach Hotel, for their role in organising the convention.
The organisation said it remains committed to convening its global membership once international travel conditions improve.
In a related development, IWCA announced the addition of Canada as its 37th chapter, marking a further expansion of its global network.
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