Supporting Cocoa Industry Development: Ministry Introduces Plantation Fund Agency
Jakarta – In a bid to bolster the growth of Indonesia’s cocoa industry, the Ministry of Industry has unveiled the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP). This agency aims to foster a sustainable upstream-downstream cocoa sector, as highlighted by the ministry’s Director General of Agro-Industry, Putu Juli Ardika, during a recent announcement.
Optimizing Opportunities for Cocoa Industry Advancement
Ardika emphasized that the establishment of BPDP will enable Indonesia to capitalize on the global surge in cocoa prices. In 2023, cocoa bean prices soared to US$3,280 per ton, with fluctuations peaking at an astounding US$10,556 per ton in December 2024. To navigate these price dynamics, the ministry and BPDP have implemented a human resource competency development program called Cocoa Doctor. This program aims to enhance the supply chain of raw materials for the cocoa sector by training professionals who can then coach farmer partners.
Strategic Steps Towards Cocoa Self-Sufficiency
The ministry’s vision extends beyond mere price fluctuations, focusing on achieving cocoa self-sufficiency. By leveraging social forestry land, Indonesia plans to ramp up cocoa bean production nationwide. Additionally, the industry is witnessing a surge in investment, with 20 cocoa processing industry producers actively engaged in creating cocoa butter, cocoa liquor, cocoa powder, and cocoa cakes. This growth has positioned Indonesia as the fourth-largest exporter of processed cocoa products globally, with a strong presence in key markets such as India, the United States, the European Union, China, and Malaysia.
Contributing to Global Market Share
Indonesia’s export value for processed cocoa products exceeded US$1.2 billion in 2023, representing 3.92 percent of the global market share. This substantial contribution underscores the country’s pivotal role in the international cocoa trade landscape.
As we delve into the intricacies of Indonesia’s cocoa industry development, it becomes evident that the Ministry of Industry’s proactive measures are steering the sector towards sustainability and self-sufficiency. From training Cocoa Doctors to exploring innovative production methods, Indonesia is poised to solidify its position as a key player in the global cocoa market. The efforts to empower farmers and enhance supply chain efficiency are not only beneficial for the industry but also resonate with the broader goal of economic prosperity and agricultural sustainability. By investing in human capital and strategic partnerships, Indonesia is laying a robust foundation for a thriving cocoa industry that can weather market fluctuations and meet the growing demand for high-quality cocoa products.
