DOST sees export potential of local cacao

CEBU, Philippines - Cebuano entrepreneurs are urged to take advantage of the huge trade potential of Philippine-produced cacao beans in both local and export markets.

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) chief for industrial technology development institute Nelia C. Florendo said if the good variety of cacao beans in the Philippines will be fully maximized, it could uplift the livelihood of farmers.

Florendo said the popularity of specialty cafes, coffee shops, and recent studies that link cacao to healthy benefits with its rich anti-oxidant properties has pulled up the demand for cacao beans to high double-digit levels.

Philippine-produced Cacao can leverage on the growing medical literatures affirming various health benefits, she said.

The demand for Philippine-produced cacao beans has also increased tremendously in the recent years, as chocolate manufacturers have found out that it has good quality and texture compared to other countries.

Florendo cited that at present the Philippines produces 10,000 to 12,000 metric tons of dried cacao beans, below halfway short than the local demand of 30,000 metric tons.

DOST urged entrepreneurs to partner with cacao growers or existing "Tablea" producers in order to grab this high potential opportunity for business.

Data showed that  Mindanao accounts for around 90 percent of the country's cacao output, with Davao Region producing the 78 percent from 2008 to 2012.

Euromonitor International expects the country's chocolate market to grow 13 percent this year.

Meanwhile, Cebu-based Tablea Chocolate Cafe announced earlier that its move to partner with Cacao farmers in the country.

Armie L. Garcia founder of the Tablea Chocolate Cafe said this move its promoted by the company's plan for exports with the entry of its Cacao-based food products, like powdered Tablea mixed, chocolate bars and other sweet stuff, is inspired by the government's move to implement programs to re-develop the Cacao farming industry.

Aside from setting its own Cacao farming to support the expanding business, Garcia said the company will also ink a partnership with Cacao farmers all over the country to aid its growing requirement.

"There is a big market for Philippine Cacao-based products in other countries. But, we have to make sure the supply first before starting off with export venture," said Garcia in an interview.

The entry of more credible study results, which link Cacao to several health benefits has pulled up the demand of Cacao-based products from the global market.

Recent studies show some benefits of cacao, which include; improving memory, reduce heart disease, shed fat, boost immunity, create loads of energy, among others. (FREEMAN)