One of Chocoa’s cornerstones is its professional conference, taking place from 19 to 20 February, which will bring together thought leaders, public-policy decision-makers, researchers, NGO representatives, and technology innovators. Through interactive panels, specialised talks, and high-level debates, attendees will explore critical issues such as supply-chain traceability, the climate challenges facing the sector, the role of producing communities, and business models capable of ensuring fairer and more sustainable production.
Running alongside the professional conference sessions, Chocoa features a Trade Fair dedicated to showcasing products, services, and solutions spanning every stage of cocoa and chocolate production, from harvest to finished product. This business platform will bring together companies, certification bodies, technology providers, and international buyers, offering opportunities to spot emerging trends, build strategic partnerships, and explore new markets.
The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the Chocoa Chocolate Festival, held over the weekend of 21 and 22 February. Open to the general public, the festival promises a unique sensory experience for chocolate lovers of all ages, with more than 100 stands from 35 countries presenting high-quality cocoa products and artisanal chocolates. Over 40 tasting sessions, educational workshops, and live demonstrations will enable visitors not only to savour chocolate, but also to better understand its origins, how it is made, and the stories of the producers who make it possible.
The Chocolate Festival will also include interactive activities such as the Hot Chocolate Awards, where the public can take part in selecting the best hot chocolate creations; children’s areas with creative cocoa-themed activities; and masterclasses covering everything from professional tasting techniques to the bean-to-bar process (from bean to bar). This approach aims to combine enjoyment with education, inviting visitors to celebrate chocolate while raising awareness of the importance of sustainability in its production.
Chocoa, which originated in 2012 under the initiative of The Company Behind Chocoa and the Chocolate Festival Foundation, is driven by the mission of promoting more sustainable cocoa as the foundation for higher-quality chocolate. Through Amsterdam Cocoa Week, this commitment to sector transformation is reinforced, emphasising practices that benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment alike. In previous editions, the participation of thousands of professionals and consumers has underscored the growing impact of this event on the global cocoa and chocolate conversation.
Chocoa 2026 is not just another trade fair or conference on the industry calendar; it is a multifaceted platform where the sector’s most complex challenges—from climate resilience to the economic and social equity of producers—are tackled through concrete solutions, global collaboration, and an integrated approach. Its combination of technical content, business spaces, and experiences for diverse audiences positions it as a must-attend event for anyone interested in the future of cocoa and chocolate.
Amsterdam, with its rich commercial heritage and vibrant cultural scene, will provide the ideal setting for this week of intense sector activity—one that promises not only to delight the most demanding palates, but also to inspire actions that contribute to a fairer, more sustainable, and more innovative cocoa sector.
