## Ecuador’s Cocoa Sector: Promising Growth and Sustainability
Ecuador’s cocoa sector is experiencing a promising period of sustained growth, fueled by rising international prices and despite climatic challenges. According to Esteban Sáenz, President of Aprocafa, Ecuador is on track to become the world’s second largest cocoa producer.
Ecuadorian cocoa exports have witnessed a remarkable growth of 180% in value until February 2024, as reported by the Trade Balance of the Central Bank of Ecuador (BCE).
Leading organizations such as Expoplaza, APROCAFA, Agearth, and Ageaple are gearing up for the Cocoa Summit, to be held on September 4-5, 2024, at the Guayaquil Convention Center. This fair will bring together key players in the sector to discuss technological advancements and innovative practices for sustainable agriculture.
Furthermore, the sector is actively implementing a national traceability system in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. This initiative ensures transparency and sustainability, meeting the stringent requirements of demanding markets like Europe and Japan.
Cocoa is not only a vital source of employment for over 200,000 Ecuadorian families, but it also contributed $1.171 billion in exports in 2023, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
With these advancements, Ecuador is solidifying its position as a leading player in the global cocoa market, poised for continued and responsible growth in the years to come.