A transformative partnership between the EU-STREIT PNG Programme and Queen Emma Chocolate is breathing new life into Papua New Guinea’s cocoa industry, revitalizing farms, upgrading factories, and opening doors to premium international markets.

Once challenged by limited production capacity, inconsistent bean quality, and restricted export access, Queen Emma—PNG’s leading domestic cocoa processor—is now experiencing a remarkable turnaround.

Supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) through the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, the company has modernized its production lines, secured reliable supplies of fine-quality beans, and cultivated demand for its locally made chocolate products abroad.

At the core of this success is a comprehensive approach that aligns every stage of the cocoa value chain—from improved farming techniques and post-harvest handling to factory processing and overseas marketing.

Queen Emma General Manager, Karina Makori stated, “The biggest impact has come from the work done in the cocoa value chain by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme to teach, train and equip farmers.”

Makori said, “Improved tools, better dryers, roads, and knowledge have all contributed to raising the quality of Sepik cocoa and our supply base.”

Historically, farmers struggled with smoke contamination during bean drying, leading to lower quality and lost income.

FAO’s interventions introduced better post-harvest practices, infrastructure upgrades, and strengthened connections between cocoa cooperatives and Queen Emma’s factory.

In 2025 alone, farmer groups from Mupa, Juar, Ramangs, and Esse Mart supplied over 24 tonnes of dried cocoa beans—valued at more than PGK 750,000—reflecting a growing network of quality-focused producers enjoying stronger incomes and expanded market access.

Inside the Queen Emma factory, a USD 2.8 million investment from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme is driving modernization.

Twelve new machines are being installed to double output and enhance product consistency, enabling the company to meet international food safety standards and compete in high-value markets.

Between January and August 2025, Queen Emma exported over PGK 5.6 million worth of cocoa products, buoyed by its debut at major trade shows in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.

“This partnership has greatly supported Queen Emma to partake in international chocolate festivals and trade events. It’s helped us grow sales and connect with new foreign buyers,” Makori added.

The company’s focus on quality is paying off: production volumes, sales revenue, and international client numbers have all doubled in recent years.

Queen Emma’s brand is gaining traction among boutique chocolatiers and premium ingredient buyers throughout the Pacific and East Asia.

With global cocoa shortages disrupting supply chains, Papua New Guinea’s niche, high-quality beans and proximity to markets offer a competitive edge.

Queen Emma aims to refine its premium product range and shed the legacy of “smoky beans” that once constrained PNG’s cocoa potential.

For farmers, the benefits are clear: higher prices for premium beans, fewer rejections, and stable contracts with a domestic processor committed to quality.

The programme’s support for logistics, training, and compliance has unlocked opportunities for rural producers in competitive markets.

“The vision for Queen Emma is to produce a truly PNG-made chocolate,” Makori said. “It has been rewarding to witness firsthand the impact cocoa has on farmers’ lives. We want to be part of the positive changes happening in communities.”

Queen Emma’s transformation exemplifies how public-private partnerships—backed by technical support, investment, and market access—can elevate an entire sector. By linking Sepik farmers to a modern, standards-driven processor, the EU-STREIT PNG Programme is fostering a more sustainable, inclusive cocoa value chain.

With rising quality, expanding capacity, and growing exports, Queen Emma is well-positioned to take Papua New Guinea’s cocoa to new heights—bringing greater value and pride to the communities that nurture it.