𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹
The Bougainville Chocolate Festival 2025, held from 28th to 30th October at Hutjena Oval, Tsitalato Constituency, Buka (North Bougainville), celebrated the region’s rich cocoa heritage and its growing role in the local and national economy. The festival brought together cocoa farmers, processors, exporters, government departments, development partners, and other stakeholders to showcase Bougainville’s cocoa industry, promote local products, and foster collaboration across the cocoa value chain.
Since its inception in 2016, the festival has been a key initiative of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) in partnership with the Australian Government through the Bougainville Partnership Programme. It was established as part of a broader effort to revive and promote the region’s cocoa industry following the Bougainville Crisis and other challenges. Over the years, the National Trade Office (NTO) has been a proud sponsor and active participant, supporting the festival in the gold and bronze categories.
The three-day event promises a range of activities, including cocoa tasting and chocolate-making demonstrations, live performances by local bands and musicians, and workshops and seminars that encourage knowledge sharing and networking across the cocoa value chain. The festival also provides a platform for local producers to connect with buyers and partners, strengthening both local and international market opportunities.
Speaking at the festival, ABG member for Tsitalato Constituency, John Bosco Ragu, emphasized the deep cultural and economic significance of cocoa for Bougainville, saying, “Cocoa is not just a commodity. It is a story. It is who we are, where we came from, and where we are going.” He extended his gratitude to government departments, agencies, businesses, and development partners for supporting initiatives that promote market access and value addition for cocoa products.
On the second day, President Toroama highlighted cocoa production as a cornerstone of Bougainville’s economic independence, noting that the industry generated a record K500 million in 2024, directly contributing to the local and national economy. He also announced the ABG’s plans to establish a “Bougainville Export Company” to oversee direct exports of cocoa and related products. The government intends to expand the industry beyond raw material production, moving towards manufacturing, branding, and exporting value-added cocoa products such as chocolate, ensuring Bougainville cocoa achieves both local and global recognition.
The Bougainville Chocolate Festival 2025 not only celebrates the region’s cocoa farming heritage but also strengthens Bougainville’s economic future by supporting local producers, creating market opportunities, and promoting the region’s unique cocoa products to the world.
