Less-developed countries seek to capitalize on consumer trends

Ethiopia, the second-most populous nation on the African continent, is well-positioned to capitalize on food and beverage trends in China through the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, according to Getahun Bikora Agegnhu, adviser to the director-general of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority.

"Coffee consumption in China is growing rapidly. There is just so much potential here to tap into," Agegnhu said at the Ethiopia pavilion.

"Everywhere around the world, coffee shops are using our beans as part of their blends. Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee - we have the best beans in the world."