2025 marked the first time the International Coffee Organization (ICO) took part on the UN General Assembly with official observer status, among other milestones, says ICO Executive Director Vanúsia Nogueira. 2025 was a year of recognition – both for the ICO and for the global coffee community we represent. The FAO Conference formally recognised 1 October as International Coffee Day, elevating a long-standing tradition into an institutional celebration. By working together, we will ensure that coffee not only adapts to global challenges but actively contributes to sustainable development worldwide. This article was first published in the January/February 2026 edition of Global Coffee Report.