Entry: Ricardo Mejia, Compania Nacional de Chocolates
The Cocoa Tour allowed me to learn more about this important crop and its supply chain in Ecuador. The diversity of interests and the mix of nationalities amongst the group, allowed for a unique interaction and the possibility to discuss farming, commercial and sustainability issues from multiple perspectives.
It was a unique opportunity to visit with representatives from the different players of the supply chain: producers, middle men, farmer associations, researchers and exporters/traders. It was very interesting to have visited small holder farmers with low input schemes and large land owners growing cocoa under high input schemes; farmer associations starting to benefit from their collective effort; national research centre working on holistic approaches for the crop and exporters working on improving the quality of the product.
With the hospitality of Ecuadorians, a captivating crop, impeccable logistics and an excellent group, the Tour was a very successful event!
