Cacao value chains and credence attributes: lessons from Ecuador

Abstract

PurposeMotivated by transformations in global food systems and increasing demand for multidimensional credence attributes, the authors analyze cacao value chains in Ecuador – the main producer of fine and flavor cacao worldwide. The authors identify opportunities and discuss how private and public sector initiatives can help meet emerging challenges.Design/methodology/approachPrimary information was collected through interviews of actors in the Ecuadorian industry during spring/summer 2020, including cacao producer associations, exporter associations, chocolate processing firms, public institutions and local universities. Two focus groups were also conducted with producers from associations in the Ecuadorian Amazon.FindingsFindings suggest new opportunities for cacao producers and chocolate processors have emerged from the global market transformation. To exploit these, firms need to personalize and differentiate their products, for example, by using quality certifications such as organic and fair trade. Market developments, such as European cadmium regulations and the necessity of worldwide traceability systems, are driving exporters to enhance Ecuador’s cacao value chains. The sector still requires coordination to reap the benefits associated with demands for credence attributes.Originality/valueFindings are supported by two case studies. The first focuses on how associativity can help those producing high-quality beans to differentiate themselves in modern agri-food markets. The second describes the success of a local chocolate firm and its links with local farmers.

Optimizing Pathogen Control through Mixed Cocoa–Plantain Agroecosystems in the Ecuadorian Coastal Region

“…as both monocultures and integrated crops, contributing substantially to the annual revenue of tropical countries [2,3]. Cocoa, required for chocolate production, is a key driver of economic activity in countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Ecuador [4]. Its economic significance is evident from its contribution to the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers and its substantial impact on the global economy with the chocolate industry valued at over $110 billion annually [5].…”

Physio-edaphoclimatic factors show optimal soil suitability for three tropical crops in the Ecuadorian Amazon

“…Ecuador is the leader in the production of fine aroma cocoa, with a 62 % share of the world market, supporting around 100,000 families (Díaz-Valderrama et al, 2020). In 2016, Ecuador produced around 253,000 metric tons of cocoa, where 70 % of the total production was considered as fine and aroma cocoa, which is exported primarily to the European market (Villacis et al, 2022). Furthermore, Ecuador has great capacity as a coffee producer, becoming one of the few countries in the world that exports all types of coffee: washed Arabica, natural Arabica and Robusta (Santos and Boffo, 2021).…”