Culinary Spotlight (DRC): A new wave of high-end Congolese chefs is turning Kinshasa classics into “Afro-fusion” fine dining, using local ingredients like safou fruit and peanut-based sauces to attract elites and put DRC cuisine on the global map. World Cup & Food/Drink Demand (LATAM): Mexico’s tourism authority says World Cup-linked activity is up 5%, with match-day hotel occupancy hitting 95% in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey; restaurants along Reforma are seeing heavy crowds as fans look for affordable eats. Local Hospitality Boost (US, with LATAM ties): In Gainesville, Florida, bars and breweries are staffing up for Team USA matches; in Chico, California, weekday World Cup games are reportedly tripling revenue for local venues. Trade Fair for F&B (Africa, global): Koelnmesse will bring Anuga Select South Africa to Cape Town in 2027, signaling growing interest in African food and agriculture markets. Wine Industry (Americas): The International Wine Challenge will reorganize into four regional competitions, with IWC Americas in Mendoza starting July 2026. Market Watch (plant-based/functional): A new report projects the global moringa products market to reach $14.48B by 2035 as wellness demand accelerates.