Mexican Cacao Programs Boost Production, Sustainability

Mexico's cacao industry has seen significant growth and sustainability improvements thanks to federal programs aimed at enhancing cultivation and production. During National Cacao and Chocolate Day, Victor Villalobos, Minister of Agriculture, highlighted the success of the government's initiatives in expanding cacao cultivation and addressing sector challenges.

Over the past two years, the Mexican government allocated MX$141.7 million (US$7.3 million) to its priority programs: Production for Well-Being, Fertilizers for Well-Being, and Genetic Improvement. These programs provided free fertilizers and promoted the use of improved genetic materials to expand cacao cultivation sustainably. Government support has been instrumental in mitigating the impacts of climatic uncertainties, rising prices, and pest and disease outbreaks, states the ministry.

Villalobos noted that Mexico ranks 13th globally in cacao production, with over 52,452ha cultivated primarily in Chiapas and Tabasco. “Mexican cacao and chocolate are now recognized internationally for their high quality and are positioned as ambassadors of the southern southeastern region of Mexico,” he said.

The minister also emphasized that there is potential for further growth in Guerrero, Michoacan, and San Luis Potosi. In this regard, cacao producers from the Costa Chica region of Guerrero called for increased promotion of local production, which is vital for regional livelihoods and self-consumption.

Claudia Jañez, Executive President, Mexican Council of Consumer Product Industry, stressed the importance of sustainability and technological innovation in overcoming challenges such as historic price increases and pandemic-related disruptions. Meanwhile, Miguel Ángel Sáinz, President of the Confectionery and Chocolate Association (ASCHOCO), highlighted the need for collaboration during a period of high demand and limited cacao supply. He pointed out that national production of around 45,000t annually falls short of the 120,000t needed to meet market demand.