A 14-tonne shipment of premium cocoa beans from Maprik District, East Sepik Province, has been exported to New Zealand for trial production, coordinated by the Bumbita Community Development Association and New Zealand importer Rautini Limited, according to NBC East Sepik.
PNG cocoa will be tested by three chocolate makers in Wellington. Bumbita has also been invited to sign a Memorandum of Understanding later this week to establish a long-term commercial framework for cocoa trade.
Rautini Limited intends to distribute Bumbita cocoa beans to approximately 40 processors across New Zealand.
The people of West Maprik have remained resilient cocoa farmers for many years, contributing significantly to the local agricultural economy. This year’s East Sepik Cocoa Expo showcased the quality and potential of Maprik cocoa to international buyers, particularly in New Zealand.
This breakthrough reflects a dual commitment: advancing PNG’s international trade diplomacy while creating economic opportunities for local cocoa farmers.
Source: Pacific Cycle
