Producing Cocoa in Northern Australia

Abstract

This report documents the implementation and outcomes of an eight-year study which investigated the feasibility of cocoa production in northern Australia.

The study was in response to lobbying in 1998 by Cadbury Schweppes who were subsequently a major supporter of the project. As a major industry player, Cadbury Schweppes were concerned about the security of future world cocoa supplies against a backdrop of rising consumption and significant risks to production in major producing countries.

The study included cocoa growing trials in three northern Australian growing regions, investigations of mechanisation opportunities and a clonal introduction program.

The performance of cocoa trials was demonstrably best at northern Queensland sites where acceptable yields and quality were achieved. No major pest or disease problems were encountered. Trial performance at sites in other states was either poor or sub-economic.

The economic viability of Australian-based cocoa production was examined and found to depend on good prices and high productivity of harvesting and processing. Mechanised pod splitting and bean separation machinery successfully developed in the project has not been commercialised.
A fledgling cocoa industry is now developing in northern Queensland with about 35 hectares (ha) of plantings established and beginning to come into production.
The research is an important contribution to the potential diversification of horticulture in tropical Australia.