The Asia-Pacific region, though historically less known for its cocoa production compared to Africa and Latin America, is emerging as a significant contributor to the global cocoa market. In 2022, the region produced approximately 350,000 metric tons of cocoa, accounting for around 7% of global cocoa output. Countries like Indonesia lead regional production, with newer markets such as India, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea gaining recognition for their high-quality, sustainably produced beans.

Sustainable cocoa farming is on the rise in Asia-Pacific, driven by both environmental needs and market demand for ethically sourced products. In 2022, 20-25% of the region's cocoa production was certified as sustainable, showing a steady growth from previous years. Countries like Papua New Guinea and Sri Lanka have pioneered organic and environmentally-friendly practices, while India is rapidly developing its cocoa farming sector with a focus on agroforestry and fair-trade principles.

The region's export of sustainably certified cocoa is also growing, with 15% of its total exports in 2022 coming from certified sources. This marks a significant shift toward ethical trade and environmental preservation, catering to global markets increasingly focused on sustainability.

FROM BEANS TO BAR: TASTE THE DIFFERENCE, SUPPORT FARMERS LIVELIHOOD

Fairtrade Cocoa Production and Sale

Overview of Cocoa Producers

Current challenges

• There are many hurdles facing the long-term sustainability of the cocoa sector. That includes widespread poverty, deforestation, gender inequality, child labour and forced labour.
  
  
• Low incomes. This prevents farmers from investing in and developing their farms, continuing the cycle of poverty.
• Gender inequality. Women cocoa farmers in some producer countries often have limited access to resources and are discriminated against.
• Power in the chocolate industry is highly concentrated. That means cocoa farmers have little influence on the price they are paid for what they grow.
• The climate crisis is affecting cocoa farms. Unpredictable weather patterns, along with diseases and pests, are impacting cocoa production.
• Deforestation due to limited control over pricing and the need for cocoa, which can see farms expand into forested areas. The industry's imbalance exacerbates environmental and economic strains for farmers. Deforestation also further contributes to the climate crisis.

WHY CHOOSE FAIRTRADE COCOA?

If we want to enjoy a future where chocolate isn’t just a rare luxury, the cocoa business needs to change. 

Decent livelihoods.  Fairtrade cocoa farmers have the security net of the Fairtrade Minimum Price for the produce they sell, for when market prices drop. Organic production is incentivised with an additional payment on top of the higher Minimum Price. Farmers also receive the Fairtrade Premium, which they choose how to invest, for example replacing old cocoa trees.

Sourcing. Fairtrade works with key industry players so that they can source large volumes of sustainably produced cocoa. This means more benefits for farmers.

Gender equity. This recognises that greater opportunities for women benefit everyone. 

Stronger together. By supporting smallholder farmers to join together into cooperatives, farmers can negotiate better terms of trade and reach more markets.

Climate resilience. Via specific programmes and standards criteria Fairtrade works with farmers to adapt to unpredictable weather patterns, mitigate environmental risks, and build a more resilient cocoa industry.

Support Farmers. Choose Fairtrade Cocoa

By choosing Fairtrade cocoa, you are helping small-scale farmers earn fair prices, build stronger communities, and protect the environment through sustainable farming practices. 

For more information write to us at comms@fairtradenapp.org