The Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA) is encouraging Jamaicans to support local chocolatiers to bolster the industry and the economy.

Acting Senior Director for Cocoa and Coconut at JACRA, Chevonne Aschute, said local producers have been ramping up production, competing for the local supply of cocoa.

“Since we grow what we eat and we eat what we grow, we need to support our local chocolatiers. This will help us to grow as a nation. Jamaica is known to produce the best of everything and with that in mind, we need to support local,” he said.

“Once we support our local [chocolate producers]… our farmers will be able to get more per box or per kg for their cocoa, so there will be a reciprocating effect where basically everyone would be able to live much better,” he added.

Mr. Aschute was speaking in a recent JIS Think Tank held at the agency’s Television Department at 5-9 South Odeon Avenue, Kingston.

Jamaica has the distinction of being among only a few countries awarded 100 per cent “fine flavour status” by the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO), which recognises the exceptional quality and rich flavour profile of local cocoa.

As such, the Jamaican cocoa fetches a higher price than bulk cocoa on the international market.

Mr. Aschute said the JACRA continues to work with farmers to safeguard the quality of the product and ensure that the pods produced are market-ready.