Papua New Guinea Opens Country’s Largest Cocoa Processing Facility

Papua New Guinea has expanded its domestic cocoa processing capabilities with a USD 2.8 million equipment investment at the Queen Emma Chocolate factory in Port Moresby, according to the EU-STREIT PNG Programme and PNG Business News. Operated by Paradise Foods Limited, the upgraded facility features 12 types of new machinery designed to double output and supply higher-grade cocoa ingredients and finished chocolate to specialty buyers.

Upgrading Processing Capacity in Port Moresby

The facility upgrade allows more of the country’s cocoa to be processed locally before export, aligning with national industrial goals. According to Prime Minister James Marape, domestic processing generates three times more revenue than exporting raw cocoa beans. Chairman Anthony Smare noted that Paradise Foods recorded its highest monthly sales in 93 years last month, reflecting growing demand for its PNG-made products.

Strengthening the Farm-Level Supply Chain

To feed the expanded factory, the EU-STREIT PNG Programme has worked directly with cocoa farming groups in East and West Sepik. According to FAO Country Office Head Dr. Kachen Wongsathapornchai, quality becomes sustainable only when the market pays for it. The programme has supported the planting of 3.4 million pest-tolerant cocoa seedlings and rehabilitated 4,960 hectares of cocoa blocks with a 95 percent grafting survival rate. Furthermore, 19,400 farmers have received training in bud grafting, climate-smart agriculture, and post-harvest handling.

Opening Doors to International Markets

With support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, Paradise Foods has showcased its cocoa and chocolate products at trade events in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. According to European Union Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Her Excellency Erica Hasznos, these efforts form part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy. By raising quality and consistency, the cooperation aims to secure broader access to premium European markets for local farmers and businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the EU-STREIT PNG Programme?

It is the European Union’s largest grant-funded initiative under the Global Gateway Strategy in Papua New Guinea, implemented as a United Nations joint programme led by the FAO in partnership with the ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP.

How much was invested in the Queen Emma Chocolate factory?

According to the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, the equipment investment totals USD 2.8 million and includes 12 types of new machinery.

Which regions benefit from the agricultural support?

The programme directly benefits the East and West Sepik provinces, reaching over 513,000 individuals and training tens of thousands of local farmers.