How to Deliver Value-Added Profit Shares to Fine and Flavor Cacao Farmers: A Case Study of Bean to Bar Chocolate Makers

Smallholder cacao farmers face poor earnings and production challenges despite supporting global cacao production. Improving farmer livelihoods is critical for the future of sustainable cacao cultivation (Gayi & Tsowou, 2016). Farmers need more opportunity to access alternative markets to increase their earnings, support their communities, and promote sustainable practices. Farmers can access alternative markets through participation in farmer organizations and trade engagements with chocolate makers who value their cacao for specialty characteristics (Rueda et al., 2023). Two interviews with specialty, value-added chocolate makers were conducted to determine their impacts on smallholder farmers. Findings support the effectiveness of direct trade relationships in increasing smallholder farmer market shares. Chocolate makers stress the importance of incorporating a sense of place in their products, supporting and trusting farmers and their production efforts, and maintaining non-monetary motivations. Replication of findings has the potential to improve smallholder farmer livelihoods and institute fundamental changes in the global cacao industry. Benefits include sustainable cultivation, preservation of natural ecosystems, and improved economic standing for smallholder farmers.