RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s cocoa processing industry is emerging as a powerhouse in Asia, accounting for nearly half of the region’s grinding volume and reinforcing the country’s role in global trade.

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita said the government is committed to strengthening competitiveness through downstream development, positioning Indonesia as a global hub for cocoa grinding.

“We are accelerating transformation by enhancing downstream processes, improving human resources, fostering farmer-industry partnerships, enforcing quality standards, and advancing sustainability principles,” he explained in Jakarta on Friday, July 24, as quoted by Antara.

Despite volatile global prices and shifting demand patterns, Indonesia’s cocoa sector posted strong results in the second quarter of 2026.

Grind Statistics show national grinding volume reached 110,410 tons, up 30.1 percent from the previous quarter’s 84,844 tons. Processed cocoa output also rose 8.2 percent, underscoring the industry’s resilience and growing competitiveness.

Minister Agus emphasized that these gains strengthen Indonesia’s position as a global processing hub and strategic partner in the cocoa supply chain.

Acting Director General of Agro Industry Putu Juli Ardika added that the Indonesia International Cocoa Conference (IICC) 2026, held July 22–24 in Yogyakarta, provides momentum to boost productivity, expand market access, and advance inclusive, sustainable production.

With the theme “The Rise of Indonesian Cocoa: The Pearl of Asia for the World,” the conference highlights Indonesia’s ambition to move beyond being a raw producer to a world‑class processing center.

The goal, Putu said, is to deliver high‑value products that meet international sustainability standards while benefiting farmers, industry, and the broader economy. ***