Paris to host inaugural global rum world congress in february 2024

The inaugural Global Rum World Congress, set to take place from February 13 to 15, 2024, at the prestigious Palais Brongniart in Paris, is poised to be a landmark event in the world of spirits. This pioneering congress aims to bring together creative and innovative minds from across the globe to delve into the economic, industrial, political, heritage, educational, and training aspects driving the burgeoning rum ecosystem.

For the first time in France, key players from the global rum ecosystem will gather for three days to discuss the major challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the industry. The event is expected to draw public buyers and institutions from over 20 rum-producing countries, along with participants from the entire rum value chain. The 2024 Global Rum World Congress promises to be a dynamic platform for announcing new initiatives within the rum ecosystem and for sharing experiences and innovative ideas. This first edition will feature no less than 50 exhibitors and representatives from 22 countries.

Business France, as an event partner, will support a group of 20 companies in their Overseas Pavilion. Attendees will have the opportunity to discover exceptional artisanal rums, with over 25 brands to choose from, including agricultural rums, spiced rums, amber rums, white rums, aged rums, and many more.

Unlike traditional events focused primarily on tasting, the Global Rum World Congress stands out by highlighting the entire Rum Ecosystem, encompassing producers, distributors, manufacturers, harvesters, international buyers, influencers, and makers of bottles, barrels, yeast, etc. This event offers a unique chance to discover emerging French distillers, 100% eco-friendly packaging solutions, the feats of artificial intelligence in the rum ecosystem, and the potential uses of sugarcane in the pharmaceutical industry.

Patrick LOGER, the organizer of the event, commented, "Given the global enthusiasm for rum, this first international event in Paris is an opportunity for all ecosystem players, from all backgrounds, to explain and understand the strong international market growth of this spirit."

At the heart of this flavor revolution, France is a pioneer in the rum industry. The creation of new distilleries within France is a testament to this boom, propelling the country to the forefront of the international scene. Young French entrepreneurs are diving into spirit-making, embodying a renaissance of French artisanal excellence. From Saint Pierre to Miquelon and Brest, rum is gaining momentum and is the only spirit witnessing a growing demand in the 26-49 age group. This trend underscores the burgeoning innovation characterizing the French rum landscape.

The Global Rum World Congress acts as a catalyst for emerging trends in the world of spirits. International speakers and industry professionals will share their success stories in the wine and spirits industry, including Japan with its high-quality whiskies, Mexico with its tequila, and of course, France with its champagne. New French rum producers will join the conversation, showcasing their innovative production practices and their relationship with sugarcane cultivation. Renowned international bartenders will decipher the fascinating evolution of mixology, which is contributing to the growth of rum, particularly in Asian countries.

A Commitment to the Future

With a rich conference program centered around four thematic areas: Public Affairs, Business, Innovation, and Education, over 35 renowned speakers will share their expertise and initiate debates on key issues of the rum ecosystem. The Global Rum World Congress will celebrate talent and know-how, foster international partnerships, and infuse a spirit of innovation in the ecosystem. As a true nexus of ideas, exchanges, and debates, the congress will explore the cultural and social dimensions of rum with the objective to:

• Present public policies supporting the global rum ecosystem.
• Encourage international collaboration among producers, distributors, and buyers.
• Promote a sustainable and responsible industrial model for the entire sector.
• Highlight innovations and startups in the rum industry.
• Guide young people towards rewarding educational and professional paths, especially in universities and business schools.
• Identify employment opportunities in the international rum sector.