The cocoa and chocolate industries stand at a pivotal crossroads, driven by the urgent need to integrate sustainable practices and adhere to stringent regulations such as the European Union's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). With around 60% of the global cocoa crop crossing EU borders, ensuring compliance is not just a regulatory requirement but a critical step to safeguarding market access. The EUDR aims to eliminate deforestation-linked products from the supply chain, thereby fostering deforestation-free cocoa production on a global scale. Moreover, the regulation is projected to significantly reduce carbon emissions by at least 32 million metric tonnes annually (CZ:2024; Swift Geo Spatial: 2024). For producers, exporters, and other stakeholders in the cocoa value chain, meeting these rigorous standards represents both a formidable challenge and a necessary commitment to the future of the industry.
Given these complexities, the CAA International Cocoa Conference Exhibition serves as a crucial platform for industry leaders to address and navigate these transformative shifts collaboratively. This annual event, organized by the Cocoa Association of Asia (CAA), will gather over 500 delegates from around the world in 2024, offering a unique opportunity to strengthen networks, explore new solutions, and address the pressing issues of sustainability, with a keen focus on the implications of the EUDR.
The conference will center on sustainability, emphasizing the critical role of the cocoa industry in combating deforestation and promoting responsible sourcing. The event will facilitate discussions that drive the industry towards more sustainable practices, ensuring that cocoa production contributes positively to environmental goals. This year's event is an opportunity for companies to showcase their commitment to sustainability and engage with key stakeholders on actionable solutions.
Official Industry Partner of the 2024 CAA International Cocoa Conference
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we are honored to participate as an exclusive sponsor and the Official Industry Development Partner of the 2024 CAA International Cocoa Conference. We will use this opportunity to connect with industry leaders and showcase our innovative solutions in sustainable cocoa production.