Davao del Norte has reclaimed its place in the global cacao trade, exporting premium fermented cacao beans for the first time in more than a decade in a breakthrough that could open new opportunities for Philippine farmers in high-value overseas markets.
Six metric tons of premium dried fermented cacao beans produced by the Kapalong Cooperative were shipped from Panabo Port on June 30 to New Zealand, where premium cacao trader Rautini Ltd. will distribute the products.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao del Norte said the shipment marks the province’s return to the international market and reflects rising global demand for premium Philippine cacao.
The agency credited sustained collaboration between government agencies and farmer cooperatives for helping local producers meet stringent export standards and secure access to overseas buyers.
Working with the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office XI, the DTI linked the cooperative with international markets while providing support on quality standards, capacity building and export compliance.
The successful shipment underscores the growing competitiveness of Philippine cacao, particularly as global chocolate makers increasingly seek premium fermented beans with traceable origins and consistent quality.
Beyond the export milestone, the initiative is expected to create higher incomes for cacao farmers, encourage investments in better farming practices and strengthen rural livelihoods through value-added agriculture.
The DTI said the achievement also reinforces Davao del Norte’s position as an emerging player in the global cacao value chain while enhancing the Philippines’ reputation as a supplier of premium-quality cacao.
With international demand continuing to expand, the agency expects the shipment to pave the way for more export opportunities, helping local producers capture greater value from one of the country’s fastest-growing agricultural export industries while driving more inclusive growth in farming communities.
