The Wangi Sawargi Farmers Group showcased its locally produced organic coffee brand, Wangi Coffee, from Pangalengan District, Bandung Regency, at the West Java International Industry and Trade Expo (WIITEX) 2026 in Bandung on June 14, 2026, as reported by Detikcom.
The organic coffee is cultivated on a 25-hectare plantation owned by Perum Perhutani in Laspada, Mount Tilu, Pangalengan District. The coffee is specially produced to generate a distinctive aroma through natural fertilization methods and specific roasting techniques.
Asep Agus Mulyana, Head of the Wangi Sawargi Farmers Group, explained that the idea for the product originated from his passion for the aroma of coffee.
“The origin of Wangi Coffee comes from my love for the aroma of coffee. That inspired me to create a coffee product, and because I enjoy its fragrance, I developed this product,” said Asep Agus Mulyana.
Asep added that although the coffee plants are physically similar to common varieties, the key difference lies in the aroma achieved through a unique roasting process.
“Physically, it is the same. What distinguishes it is the aroma. There is a special blend and roasting method that brings out the fragrance,” he explained.
In maintaining the plantation, the farmers consistently use organic fertilizers derived from coffee-processing waste and livestock manure to preserve crop quality.
“This is fully organic. We utilize coffee waste, such as coffee husks, as well as goat manure. Fertilization is carried out twice a year without any chemical additives,” said Asep.
According to Asep, the use of organic fertilization significantly reduces operational costs related to fertilization and spraying.
Under optimal conditions, the plantation can produce up to 10 tons of coffee annually, with an average harvest of around 4 tons. However, production declined in 2026 due to crop failures caused by extreme weather conditions.
“In 2026, production decreased because of crop failure caused by extreme weather, excessive rainfall, and crop rot,” Asep noted.
Beyond providing economic benefits for local farmers, coffee cultivation has also been used as an environmental restoration initiative to reforest degraded areas in Pangalengan.
“This effort supports community empowerment and the reforestation of barren forest areas. It can help minimize disasters, while former tea plantation land is being replanted with coffee trees and damar trees,” Asep explained.
The West Java Provincial Government hopes that the international exhibition will serve as a catalyst for expanding market access for local industries.
Erwan Setiawan, Vice Governor of West Java, stated that WIITEX 2026 carries a strategic mission to connect regional potential with broader market opportunities.
“This event is not merely an exhibition; it is a strategic platform that connects regional potential with wider market opportunities. Through collaboration among government institutions, businesses, communities, and industry players, we believe West Java will become an even stronger center of sustainable economic growth,” said Erwan Setiawan.
He further emphasized that the event sends a positive signal for the future development of West Java’s trade and industrial sectors.
“What we are doing today is not only a successful event but also a source of optimism for a more advanced future for West Java’s trade and industry,” he added.
Meanwhile, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates have had varying impacts on the international coffee trade.
Nining Yuliastiani, Head of West Java’s Industry and Trade Office (Disperindag), explained that the depreciation of the Indonesian rupiah benefits exporting farmers, although rising logistics costs remain a challenge.
“Logistics remains a challenge, especially in maintaining competitiveness against countries such as Vietnam, Colombia, and India. Our largest export market is the United States. Compared to Vietnam and India, Indonesia currently has certain advantages,” said Nining Yuliastiani.
She noted that logistics costs for exports to the United States can still be managed through price adjustments negotiated between farmers and overseas buyers.
“For logistics, there are price adjustments agreed upon with buyers abroad. The key point is that if raw materials and production processes can be sourced domestically, our competitiveness will improve,” she explained.
West Java’s coffee industry has shown a consistently positive growth trend, reflected in both export volumes and export values.
“In 2025, coffee exports reached a value of USD 33.5 million, with a volume of 5.8 million tons. The figures continue to grow. There is strong demand for West Java coffee, and countries such as Pakistan are particularly interested in our Arabica coffee,” Nining stated.
The West Java Industry and Trade Office reaffirmed its commitment to providing comprehensive support for coffee farmers, ranging from plantation management at the upstream level to product promotion and marketing strategies downstream.
“Our approach addresses challenges from upstream to downstream. We continue to promote products, improve product quality, and encourage innovation. We provide intensive education on plantation management, harvesting, and processing to ensure high-quality coffee products,” Nining concluded.