Growing importance of Asean cocoa industry

The Asian cocoa industry has become more balanced in term of production versus grinding. It will become even more important in the global scene as the huge potential in consumption is realised in the near future. The major issues confronting the industry are increasing deficit supply of fermented beans, and the losses due to cocoa pod borer. With advancement in communication technology and a more globalized way of working, barriers are lowered and information flows more freely in the supply chain. This presents excellent opportunities for producers (farmers), resource enablers (extension and technology transfer, traders, exporters, grinders, manufacturers, government institutions, non-governmental organizations, donor agencies), and consumers in working towards a cocoa economy that meet the triple bottom lines of social, economic, and environment.