Cocoa sector re-energised

The cocoa sector is seen as poised for growth based on ramped-up government support and interest from overseas processors.

"We are the finest flavour in the world and we have been having many enquiries from around the world from processors, who want the fine flavour," said Robert Montague, who up to the December election was minister of agriculture.

"Based on the applications for licences for the processing and export of cocoa from our overseas partners, it is a glorious and bright day for cocoa," he said.

The marketing of the bean is overseen by the Cocoa Industry Board, which buys from farmers.

Government has increased the farm gate price of cocoa by 23 per cent and is looking at promoting small-scale, high-end production of the crop utilising technologies from India and the wider Caribbean.

A number of farmer's co-operatives across Jamaica have restarted, and the Cocoa Industry Board is also engaged with the Scientific Research Council to develop and market high-end value-added products from cocoa.

Last year, the Cocoa Board secured a J$63-million grant from the European Union to help 650 farmers boost production for export.

Under the two-year project, which is expected to resuscitate some 1,500 acres of cocoa fields and grow yields by 50 per cent, farmers will receive increased access to extension services and training in best practices.

"In going forward, we hope to raise the output this year by about 500 metric tonnes ... we have seen an increase. The farmer now will be seeing returns from the cocoa, and it is all part of the Government's effort to re-engage this industry," the minister said.

The Cocoa Industry Board is the sole marketing agent for Jamaican cocoa. A significant portion of the beans processed is exported primarily to Europe, Japan and the United States. Processing normally takes place at the four fermentaries in the parishes of Hanover, Clarendon, St Mary and Kingston.