Papua New Guinean Cocoa and Vanilla Entrepreneurs, Supported by FAO, Make Waves at International Level, Secure Lucrative Export Deals

Wewak, Papua New Guinea – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), as part of the European Union-funded STREIT PNG Programme, facilitated a pioneering international exposure visit for select cocoa and vanilla farmers and agripreneurs from the Sepik region of Papua New Guinea. This initiative, aimed at fostering agricultural SME and enterprise development in the region, culminated in successful participation in the FHA Food and Beverage Expo 2024 in Singapore and a study tour of a model cocoa factory in the Philippines.

The FHA Food and Beverage Expo held in Singapore, a premier international trade event, provided an unparalleled platform for the Sepik delegation to showcase their high-quality cocoa, vanilla, and chocolate products to a global audience. This exposure led to establishing valuable contacts with potential buyers and manufacturers, paving the way for lucrative export agreements at premium prices.

"The EU-STREIT PNG Programme is committed to empowering local value chain farmers and entrepreneurs," stated Dr. Pavel Burian, Deputy Programme Coordinator for the EU-STREIT PNG. "This initiative not only enables them to exhibit their products on the world stage but also serves as a catalyst for the development of more sustainable and advanced value chains in the Sepik region and beyond."

Remarkable Results and Impact

The delegation's participation in the expo yielded remarkable results. Vanilla Value Chain actors from the Sepik identified 13 potential markets, with seven already actively communicating with farmer businesses for trial shipments. Two local vanilla businesses in East Sepik Province have secured export deals, marking a significant milestone for the region's agricultural sector.

Cocoa Value Chain actors also experienced a surge in interest, with 15 chocolate producers expressing keen interest in Sepik cocoa beans. Five potential buyers from China, Vanuatu, and Singapore are already in discussions with Wilyete Cocoa Exports of West Sepik Province to procure cocoa dry beans. This local business was supported by the Programme to participate in the tradeshow.

"We are grateful to FAO and EU-STREIT PNG for this incredible opportunity. Two of the five traders have already signed contracts, and we anticipate our first shipment by June 2024," expressed Mr. Tony Benedict, Managing Director of Wilyete Cocoa Exports.

Study Tour to the Philippines

Following the expo, the delegation embarked on a study tour to cocoa farms and chocolate factories in the Philippines. This immersive experience provided valuable insights into traditional fermentation and drying methods, as well as modern cocoa processing techniques.

"My participation was an unforgettable experience and a success story for vanilla farmers in Wewak District. We have received inquiries from international traders and are eager to begin exporting our vanilla beans," reflected Mr. Nicodemas Mainga of Mongs AgTrade Services Ltd.

Empowering Local Entrepreneurs

Dr. Rabi Rasaily, FAO Senior Agricultural Officer, emphasized the significance of this initiative: "The participation of Sepik cocoa and vanilla value chain actors, especially producers, in the global platform exposed them to understand the market needs, hence, enabling them to prepare their raw products like cocoa dry beans and cured vanilla beans to meet international quality standards."

The EU-STREIT PNG Programme's unwavering support for Sepik cocoa and vanilla entrepreneurs has not only opened doors to international markets but has also instilled a sense of pride and confidence in their ability to compete and market their products globally. This initiative stands as a shining example of how strategic investments and support in agricultural value chains can transform local economies and uplift communities.

About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme

The EU-STREIT PNG, implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme (FAO as the leading agency and ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP as implementing partners), is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the Pacific. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas by enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to ICT and digital financial services. It also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient transport infrastructures and renewable energy solutions. The Programme benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik. 

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