The latest annual report from the Cacao-Trace® sustainable cocoa program, run by Puratos and Belcolade, reveals its largest-ever distribution to cocoa-growing communities—€7 million in total for 2024. This includes a €3.2 million “Chocolate Bonus,” up over 33% from the previous year, and €3.8 million in Quality Premium payments, both designed to improve farmer incomes and support community development.
More than 24,000 farmers across eight countries benefitted from the scheme last year, with over 19,000 customers now supporting the program. The Chocolate Bonus, linked to the volume of Cacao-Trace chocolate sold, helps fund education and health initiatives, such as 72 new water facilities and seven school projects in 2024. The Quality Premium rewards farmers for delivering superior-quality wet cocoa beans, offering an additional payment beyond the standard farmgate price.
As Cacao-Trace nears its tenth anniversary, the total amount paid through the Chocolate Bonus has surpassed €10 million, underlining the program’s commitment to its guiding principle: “Great Taste, Doing Good.” Belcolade’s entire chocolate innovation portfolio is now Cacao-Trace certified.
The report also highlights several global developments, including a new cocoa bean grinding line in Mexico, a post-harvest centre in Peru, and expanded fermentation and roasting capabilities in Vietnam. These investments are part of the program’s ongoing efforts to improve quality and transparency. Over 150 customers visited Cacao-Trace facilities last year, strengthening partnerships and deepening understanding of the cocoa supply chain. The continued growth of the program underscores the direct link between exceptional chocolate and meaningful impact for farming communities.
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Joseph Clarke
Editor, International Confectionery
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