QUALITY BEANS, QUALITY ‘CHOCOLAT’ GASTON CHOCOLAT’S JOURNEY TO A PREMIUM COCOA MARKET

Around 8,500 of Vanuatu’s agricultural households rely significantly on the sale of cocoa, which is still a substantial exportable crop. Vanuatu’s cocoa is recognized for its wonderful flavors, which are attributable to a combination of the ideal tropical climate (soil and temperature) in which it is grown and the processing processes used. To thrive in premium export markets, PHAMA Plus has assisted with increased quality and development in its upstream supply chain through its cooperation with Gaston Chocolat. The partnership also helped Gaston get high-quality cocoa beans by gaining two gateway certifications: the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) certificate and the B Corp. accreditation. These certifications allow Gaston Chocolat goods to retain and expand their international market access.