A renowned chocolate store in Tokyo has recently introduced Salvadoran chocolate bars to its shelves, marking a significant stride in the international chocolate market.
Japan has been importing Salvadoran cacao since 2019, albeit in modest quantities. In 2023, these imports amounted to $300, showcasing a growing interest in the distinctive flavors of Salvadoran cocoa.
The Salvadoran Embassy in Japan revealed that the inclusion of Salvadoran cacao in the renowned chocolatier’s offerings is part of the Agroindustrial Value Chains project, executed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica).
«This opens up avenues for the growth of the cocoa industry in El Salvador, allowing it to venture into new international markets, thanks to its quality and cultivation standards,» emphasized the diplomatic mission.
Govida, a premium chocolate manufacturer based in Belgium since 1926, has played a pivotal role in this venture. With a strong presence in the Asian, European, and American markets, Govida’s collaboration adds a layer of expertise to the introduction of Salvadoran chocolate in Japan.
Japan’s foray into Salvadoran cacao began in 2019 with an initial export of $3,915, as documented by the Central Reserve Bank (BCR). Although purchases have shown a decline, amounting to $300 in 2023, the unique qualities of Salvadoran cacao continue to captivate the market.
El Salvador’s cacao has gained recognition in the specialty market for its distinct characteristics. In the latest edition of the Cacao of Excellence, two samples from local farms secured positions among the top 50, earning a gold and a bronze medal.
According to BCR records, in 2023, El Salvador exported over $6.1 million worth of cacao, with $2.4 million destined for the United States and $1.4 million to Guatemala.
Cacao, an ancestral crop of El Salvador, faced a decline in plantations as sugarcane and basic grain crops gained prominence. In 2014, there were approximately 800 acres under cultivation, but with low intensity.
To revitalize the sector, the Cacao Alliance was launched in this context. The initiative not only involved the distribution of plants but also provided training to farmers on cultivation practices and established an excellence competition.
Currently, it is estimated that there are between 4,000 and 5,000 acres of young plantations, yielding a production of 500 tons in the last cycle. This resurgence in Salvadoran cacao signifies a promising future for the country’s cocoa industry on the global stage.