At Chocoa, the Network had a stand with three member companies: Woptrading, with its vast experience in Ancestral cocoa; Awki, an innovator in the production and marketing of chocolate; and Aromaz, specializing in sensory experiences. Each of them presented their vision of how tourism can be integrated with the cocoa value chain, generating sustainable and differentiated opportunities.
A space for global exchange
One of the highlights of Chocoa 2025 was the international panel led by Amora Carbajal Schumacher, director of the World Cocoa and Derivative Tourism Network, who shared her vision on the potential of cocoa as a driver of tourism. Carbajal emphasized how this product, steeped in history, tradition and cultural significance, can generate economic and social impact in producing regions when integrated into tourism experiences that promote respect for communities and sustainability.
Also participating in the discussion was Andrea Boekhoud-Montoya, BENELUX coordinator for the Network, who offered a perspective from Europe, a key region in both chocolate consumption and innovation around this product. Boekhoud-Montoya stressed the importance of international collaboration to position cocoa as a global tourist attraction.
The panel sought to answer key questions such as: How can sustainable tourism support cocoa producers and preserve local traditions? How can tourism routes be created that combine gastronomic and cultural experiences around cocoa and chocolate? What strategies are needed to promote responsible tourism that respects the ecosystems where cocoa is grown?
These questions were analyzed by the experts present, who shared success stories and strategies that are already generating positive results in cocoa-growing communities in various regions of the world.
Cocoa as a tourist attraction
In addition to its relevance as an agricultural and economic product, cocoa has a rich history and culture that make it a unique attraction for tourists. From its cultivation to its transformation into chocolate, each stage offers an incomparable sensory experience that connects visitors with the roots of the producing communities. This approach, in addition to strengthening tourism, allows local producers to reap fair and sustainable benefits.
The participation of the World Cocoa and Derivative Tourism Network in Chocoa 2025 represented a significant advance in the articulation of efforts between the tourism sector and the cocoa industry. This event is positioned as a crucial platform to give visibility to initiatives that seek to generate a positive impact on both communities and global markets.
About Chocoa
Chocoa is an international fair that brings together key players in the cocoa value chain, from producers and traders to chocolatiers, consumers and promoters of related initiatives. With a focus on sustainability and quality, this event has established itself as a benchmark in the sector.
