AUSTRALIA continues to invest in the Solomon Islands cocoa sector. This investment has been boosted by Australia’s support for Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands (KPSI) to launch a new locally produced drinking chocolate.
Launched in celebration of KPSI’s 20th anniversary, the new product celebrates KPSI’s recent value-added cocoa processing and export expansion through the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership.
KPSI is a leading producer and exporter of virgin coconut oil, beauty products, and organic cocoa beans in Solomon Islands. Australia was proud to be a strategic partner of KPSI given its strong track record of partnering with local communities and farmers to develop premium cocoa and coconut products and employing modern technologies.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, commended the collaboration that aims to foster inclusive economic growth.
“The launch of KPSI’s new drinking chocolate demonstrates how strategic support can lead to high-quality local produce that competes in both domestic and international markets. This partnership is helping to grow the cocoa industry, create more local jobs, and provide more opportunities for Solomon Islands farmers.”
In-country cocoa processing is a crucial avenue for growing the cocoa sector. Solomon Islands imports around 99 tonnes of cocoa powder annually, presenting a significant opportunity for local producers to substitute imports with homegrown products.
KPSI’s Managing Director, Bob Pollard, thanked Australia for supporting the company’s local expansion.
“As we celebrate 20 years in business, we are proud to introduce our new drinking chocolate product. Solomon Islands has the capability to produce premium cocoa products for both local consumption and export markets,” he said.
“By working closely with our farmer suppliers and investing in value-added processing, we can create sustainable income streams for communities and introduce high-quality Solomon Islands cocoa to the world.”
The new drinking chocolate was initially launched in Honiara, with plans to scale up marketing campaigns across Solomon Islands, positioning it as a competitive alternative to popular imports.
In addition to expanding local cocoa production, KPSI plans to improve its supply chain which currently engages more than 1,000 certified organic farmers across its virgin coconut oil supplier network across the country, many whom produce both coconut and cocoa on their farms. This will greatly contribute to a consistent supply of high-quality dried cocoa beans.
As KPSI expands its cocoa operations, Australia is also supporting reinvestment in local communities. This includes providing training in cocoa farm management and certification to farmer suppliers and producers.
Source: Australia High Commission, Honiara