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SIBC, Voice of the Nation
Commodities

CEMA strengthens direct export pathways for copra and cocoa

By Fredrick Kusu

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Unloading Copra and Cocoa products from the Provinces at Point Cruz wharf in Honiara

The Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) is making significant progress in strengthening direct export pathways for copra and cocoa, aiming to maximise value for local farmers and the national economy.

CEMA is shifting from reliance on intermediaries to direct engagement with international manufacturers, ensuring higher returns, improved market stability, and greater transparency.

Direct partnerships for cocoa exports with manufacturers like Barry Callebaut Cocoa Asia Pacific Pte Ltd and the United Arab Emirates via Bangladesh for copra exports are securing better prices and benefits for Solomon Islands commodities.

This approach reduces dependency on middlemen, retaining more export value within the country.

CEMA’s efforts align with the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) mandate to secure better farm-gate prices and fairer participation for rural farmers.

CEMA recognises domestic processors’ vital role in value-adding, employment creation, and strengthening the local market.

The authority will continue to expand direct partnerships and open new export markets, prioritising China, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and premium chocolate manufacturers.

This strategic shift reinforces CEMA’s role as a driver of rural empowerment, increased farmer profitability, and sustainable national economic growth, supporting GNUT’s productivity and trade priorities.

Cocoa and copra are the two most important agricultural export commodities for the country, and their combined export earnings saw a significant surge in 2025, reaching over SBD$511 million in the first three quarters.

This growth is attributed to favourable global market prices, improved access to agricultural loans, increased participation from women and youth, and strengthened market linkages, leading to renewed confidence in the country’s agricultural sector.

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GCU statement

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