Mars has reported further progress in its cocoa sourcing programme, with suppliers sourcing an annual volume of cocoa under its Responsible Sourced Cocoa programme equivalent to 98% of the company’s 2025 cocoa volume.
The confectionery manufacturer published the figures on 17 September as part of its Cocoa for Generations 2025 Progress Report, which tracks its work across cocoa sourcing, farming communities, environmental protection and supply-chain resilience. Mars said an equivalent volume was also deforestation- and conversion-free after the relevant cut-off dates.
The programme forms part of Mars’ ten-year, US$1 billion Cocoa for Generations commitment, which runs from 2018 to 2028. Cocoa remains a major raw material for Mars’ confectionery portfolio, which includes brands such as M&M’s and Snickers.
Technology supports cocoa production
Mars is combining sourcing requirements with agricultural research and technology intended to improve productivity and strengthen cocoa supplies.
During 2025, the company released two new cocoa clones in Indonesia in collaboration with the country’s National Research and Innovation Agency, while 37 high-productivity and disease-resistant clones were registered with Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture.
The business is also developing AI-based tools for cocoa production. Its Cocoascan technology is designed to help farmers in Latin America identify visual signs of diseases including Witches’ Broom, Frosty Pod and Black Pod, while the Cocoa Fresh AI mobile application is intended to improve management of wet and dry cocoa bean supply chains.
Mars additionally launched its first climate-smart agriculture programme with suppliers in Latin America, involving 430 farmers across 3,541 hectares. Measures include agricultural practices intended to improve soil health and cocoa yields.
