Technical Brief on Cocoa Traceability in West and Central Africa

This case study on Cocoa Traceability emphasizes the significance of enhancing transparency and traceability in the cocoa value chain for bolstering accountability and sustainability in the chocolate and cocoa sector. The Cocoa & Forests Initiative, signed by Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire governments, and 35 companies, commits to full traceability from farms to the first purchase point to combat deforestation. A similar initiative, the Roadmap to Deforestation-free Cocoa2 in Cameroon, targets 100% traceability by 2025.

The study aims to steer positive transformations in cocoa practices. It seeks not only to provide valuable insights into the current state of traceability but also to shape the trajectory of traceability in the cocoa sector, contributing significantly to the overarching objectives of sustainable cocoa production. By delving into emerging trends and best practices, the study aspires to contribute to a common vision for the evolution of traceability, aligning it with the goals of sustainability and environmental conservation in the cocoa industry. Key findings stress the strengths and challenges of current traceability systems and advocate for a common understanding of cocoa traceability.