Australia Expands Support for Cocoa Sector

Australia and JCS Enterprise partner to boost cocoa sourcing and market access for farmers in Guadalcanal.

A new partnership between Australia and JCS Enterprise is set to expand cocoa sourcing and improve market access for farmers in Northeast Guadalcanal.

Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Rod Hilton, welcomed the collaboration, stating that the initiative is creating reliable markets for farmers, generating local jobs, and helping Solomon Islands cocoa reach its full export potential.

As part of the partnership, Australia will support JCS Enterprise in securing financing for a vehicle suited to the challenging terrain in cocoa-growing areas east of the Bokokimbo River. The collaboration also includes upgrades to JCS’s cocoa storage capacity and sourcing operations, aimed at improving cocoa quality and enabling consistent buying from remote plantations in areas such as Ghombua, Ruavatu, Bikuvite, Geza, and Aola.

These improvements are expected to enhance JCS’s ability to access commercial finance and expand its reach.

Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Franklyn Derek Wasi, commended the initiative, highlighting its alignment with national priorities to strengthen agribusiness development. He noted that the partnership directly supports efforts to empower rural farmers and promote inclusive economic growth in the cocoa industry.

JCS Enterprise General Manager, Jerry Sukulu, said the support would make a tangible difference for the business and local farmers. “This support means we can reach more farmers, buy more cocoa, and reduce our transport costs. It will help us grow our business and ensure that farmers in hard-to-reach areas don’t miss out,” Sukulu said.

This partnership forms part of Australia’s broader commitment to inclusive private sector development in Solomon Islands, with a focus on improving rural livelihoods and economic resilience.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock also operates the Cocoa and Coconut Revolving Fund (CCRF), a key initiative that provides accessible financing for cocoa and coconut production, processing, and marketing. The fund complements partnerships like the one with JCS Enterprise by addressing common challenges in logistics and market access.

SOURCE: AHC PRESS