Fiji's cocoa industry is making its mark on the world stage.

Cacao Fiji Limited, one of the country's leading cocoa exporters, has shipped its first metric tonne of cocoa beans to the United States of America, along with 400 kilogrammes to Canada, and is currently working on an export to Australia. The shipments signal that Fiji can compete in the premium cocoa market and that demand for Fijian cacao is real.

For founder, Arif Khan, this is a milestone year in the making. Mr. Khan is also the founder of Vanua Chocolate, a bean-to-bar chocolate company that produces award-winning chocolate using cocoa sourced directly from Fijian farmers. Vanua Chocolate crafts the chocolate bars, while Cacao Fiji processes and exports the cocoa beans.

"We have proven over the years that Fiji can produce world-class fine cacao, established by the recognition and awards our cocoa has received internationally," Mr. Khan said. "We are confident that market demand exists for premium Fiji cacao and that the opportunity for growth is substantial."

Cacao Fiji was launched in 2014 with a mission to revive Fiji's dormant cocoa industry. Mr. Khan is now based in Ra, Viti Levu, where he continues to work with smallholder farmers, providing training and support in advanced post-harvest processing.

A Sweet Spot for Investment and Export

The global market for premium and ethically sourced cocoa is growing. Fiji's cocoa, known for its fruity flavours and unique taste, has already gained international recognition. In 2015, Fiji cocoa placed in the top 50 at the international cocoa competition in France, putting the country on the map as a recognised origin for premium cocoa beans.

Chocolate makers using Fiji cocoa havewon international awards, reinforcing the quality of the product.

For international chocolate makers, Mr. Khan is eager to work with them to export more of Fiji's fine flavour cocoa. The demand is there, but the key constraint is supply.

For farmers, the financial returns are significant. Cocoa farmers can earn between $500 and $2,000 per buy, with the potential to earn $10,000 to $12,000 annually from cocoa farming. This represents a meaningful income stream for rural communities.

Mr. Khan's long-term vision is to impact well over a thousand farmers, potentially reaching a few thousand and even 10,000 farmers across the country. He believes Fiji's cocoa industry can grow from current volumes to 80 metric tonnes, then 100 metric tonnes and eventually 500 metric tonnes and beyond.

"I have seen successful agricultural diversification in Cairns, Australia, where sugar cane and banana farmers expanded into cocoa production," he said.

"With proper training, irrigation support and extension services, many growers already possess the farming discipline and expertise required to successfully integrate cocoa into their farming operations."

Innovation in Farming

One of the key innovations driving growth is grafting technology. Using Amelonado disease-resistant rootstock with Trinitario, a flavorful scion, can reduce the time to first harvest from five years to just 18months to two years. This method also yields more than twice a year and produces more flavorful cocoa. Cocoa plants can produce for 30 years, with pruning increasing pod yield.

The government has also shown commitment to the sector, with $300,000 allocated to cocoa development. However, Mr. Khan emphasises that the Ministry of Agriculture needs to work closely with Cacao Fiji to distribute more seedlings to farmers. He is ready to sign purchase contracts with farmers, which would provide them with guaranteed buyers and greater incentive to plant and care for their cocoa trees. A push is underway for cocoa and coffee industry development to establish a robust industry within three to five years.

New Markets, New Opportunities

The recent export to the United States is just the beginning. Demand is already outstripping supply, and Mr. Khan is working to scale up production. Cacao Fiji is investing in automated machines to increase capacity, with a goal to move from one metric tonne to one container, which is 12 metric tonnes, in the near future.

The company has also created a "Fine Fiji Cacao" brand, which has won awards and is known for its distinctive flavour. The target is the fine cacao segment, similar to specialty coffee, which commands premium prices and can absorb significant volume.

On the local front, Cacao Fiji is already producing 5,000 to 6,000 chocolate bars per month, supplying resorts and retailers catering to tourists. The goal is to double local production before expanding exports further. This represents an import substitution opportunity, keeping value within Fiji while building a brand that Fijians can be proud of.

A Call to Action for Investors andPartners

Fiji's cocoa industry is at a turning point. The demand is there. The quality is recognised. The farmers are ready. What is needed now is investment, partnership, and strategic support to scaleup production and connect Fijian cocoa with the world.

For investors, the opportunity lies in expanding the foundation. Mr. Khan has opened up the Fiji Cacao brand for investment, but he emphasises that investors must come in to support new seedling planting. This is what will increase the number of trees and drive the volume needed to meet growing international demand.

For exporters, Fiji cocoa offers a premium product with established international demand. For farmers, cocoa presents a pathway to diversify income and build long-term livelihoods.

Mr. Khan and his team are ready to work with Government, investors, and chocolate makers to grow this industry. With the right partnerships, Fiji can become a significant player in the global premium cocoa market.

For more information on investment and export opportunities in Fiji's agricultural sector, contact Investment Fiji today.

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