Title: PNG Cocoa Pathways: From Farmers to Premium Markets
Location: Papua New Guinea
Partner: Bumbita Community Development Association
Year: 2024 to date
Challenge:
Papua New Guinea is home to some of the world’s most distinctive cocoa, grown by smallholder farmers in rich and diverse landscapes. In East Sepik, communities have long relied on cocoa as a source of income, yet many have faced challenges in reaching premium markets. Grow Asia Pacific is working alongside local partners to support a renewed vision for the sector—one that builds on local knowledge while opening new opportunities for farmers.
The establishment of a partnership with the Bumbita Community Development Association (BCDA) provided the platform for transformation, opportunity and market access.
Our Response & Impact:
The journey has already begun with the first successful shipment of cocoa beans to New Zealand, marking an important step forward. It showcased the potential and ability of farmers in PNG to meet international standards and connect to buyers beyond their borders. It showcased the potential that exists in collaboration and created momentum and confidence across the community that higher-value markets are within reach.
The focus now is on strengthening the whole pathway—from cocoa fermentation and drying, tracking, handling and preparation for export. Small improvements at each stage can make a big difference, helping farmers earn more while ensuring their cocoa meets the expectations and standards of global markets.
Looking ahead, the ambition is simple but powerful: to create a reliable bridge between farmers in Papua New Guinea and premium chocolate makers around the world. By working together across the supply chain, the initiative aims to unlock the true value of PNG cocoa—bringing lasting benefits to rural communities while sharing their unique product with global consumers.
Title: PNG Cocoa Pathways: From Farmers to Premium Markets
Location: Papua New Guinea
Partner: Bumbita Community Development Association
Year: 2024 to date
Challenge:
Papua New Guinea is home to some of the world’s most distinctive cocoa, grown by smallholder farmers in rich and diverse landscapes. In East Sepik, communities have long relied on cocoa as a source of income, yet many have faced challenges in reaching premium markets. Grow Asia Pacific is working alongside local partners to support a renewed vision for the sector—one that builds on local knowledge while opening new opportunities for farmers.
The establishment of a partnership with the Bumbita Community Development Association (BCDA) provided the platform for transformation, opportunity and market access.
Our Response & Impact:
The journey has already begun with the first successful shipment of cocoa beans to New Zealand, marking an important step forward. It showcased the potential and ability of farmers in PNG to meet international standards and connect to buyers beyond their borders. It showcased the potential that exists in collaboration and created momentum and confidence across the community that higher-value markets are within reach.
The focus now is on strengthening the whole pathway—from cocoa fermentation and drying, tracking, handling and preparation for export. Small improvements at each stage can make a big difference, helping farmers earn more while ensuring their cocoa meets the expectations and standards of global markets.
Looking ahead, the ambition is simple but powerful: to create a reliable bridge between farmers in Papua New Guinea and premium chocolate makers around the world. By working together across the supply chain, the initiative aims to unlock the true value of PNG cocoa—bringing lasting benefits to rural communities while sharing their unique product with global consumers.
