El Salvador’s high-quality cacao and rich cultural heritage were recently showcased at the Tokyo Chocolate Salon 2025. The event highlighted the country’s potential to compete in international chocolate markets.

The participation of Salvadoran cacao was promoted by the Embassy of El Salvador in Japan in coordination with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Organizers emphasized the main attributes of Salvadoran fine aroma cacao, celebrated for its pre-Columbian origins, deep cultural symbolism, and growing economic significance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also noted the support of Japanese cooperation through the Project to Strengthen the Agroindustrial Crop Value Chain in El Salvador (Crevas), implemented by JICA and the University of El Salvador. The initiative aims to enhance the production, quality, and export of cacao.

As part of the event, attendees enjoyed a tasting of Salvadoran chocolates crafted by Xocolatísimo, an internationally recognized company awarded at the International Chocolate Awards. Three chocolate varieties—100%, 85%, and 75% cacao—were made from beans grown at Hacienda San José Real de la Carrera in Usulután.

Visitors shared their impressions on traditional jute sacks used for cacao export. These comments will be sent directly to Salvadoran producers to strengthen the connection between Japanese consumers and El Salvadoran farmers, the Ministry said. “Participation in the Tokyo Chocolate Salon 2025 reflects the Embassy of El Salvador’s efforts to diversify national exports to the Asian market, strengthen Salvadoran cacao’s positioning in premium segments, and promote economic and cultural cooperation between El Salvador and Japan,” the statement added.