Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian government, through the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB), plays a key role in driving cocoa research and development (R and D) to boost the industry’s competitiveness. Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani highlighted the MCB’s focus on cocoa cultivation, post-harvest processing, breeding and mass management, and quality control as well as product development.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johari noted that efforts in the upstream sector have resulted in a 65 percent increase in cocoa beans production, rising from 269 tonnes to 445 tonnes last year. Speaking at the launch of the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025, he emphasized the need to revive local cocoa production to address the imbalance between the downstream sector and the upstream market.

Johari stated that the focus is on premium cocoa varieties such as fine flavour beans, single-origin beans, and organic beans to meet global quality demands. He also mentioned the ongoing development of the National Cocoa Traceability System, which aims to promote a sustainable and responsible cocoa supply chain.

Furthermore, Malaysia is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, reducing methane emissions by 30 percent, and maintaining forest cover at no less than 50 percent. The implementation policies prohibit deforestation and emphasize good agricultural practices with quality planting materials.

Johari expressed the government’s dedication to sustainable plantation practices, aiming to yield higher returns and premium prices for farmers while protecting the environment and forests. The MICF 2025, organized by the MCB from May 24-27, features exhibitions, conferences, cultural dinners, business matching, and business talks. The event has attracted 1,000 participants from 16 countries, bringing together industry leaders, researchers, investors, and government stakeholders to explore the latest trends and technologies in cocoa.