Project News

A number of transactions of the target chocolate producers in the local modern segment have been already reported 21 cases in total including supermarkets, groceries and souvenir shops. One producer has got a deal with a major supermarket chain, Carrefour at Palu City.

A Chocolate shop at a local airport has been also launched and filled with various products from 7 producers. Because most of the producers have less continuing business experience and they are busy moms with small children, Provincial Industry & Trade Office has been continuously providing necessary supports and guidance on shop management to promote "Central Sulawesi Chocolate" together with the producers. Although it is not a favorable condition of limited flight operation and short stay of passenger at the small-scale airport, they have average daily sales of 50 products so far. Chocolate drink will be also prepared for sell to attract waiting passengers to come into the shop.

There are found many cases in Indonesia that equipment provision by the government to a micro/ small-scale producer do not lead to an expected outcome due to the lack of experience/ funds of the recipient of support. Trial of Central Sulawesi Province is different from this conventional way. Provincial Industry & Trade Office produces a main material (couverture: chocolate for cooking, in this case) utilizing equipments provided by the Ministry of Industry for the purpose of supplying to the producers with low price. In parallel, other necessary supports/ guidance are provided in order to put the target produces' business on track. This practice is appreciated in its effectiveness as an alternative model of service delivery, especially for a program of new industry development utilizing local agricultural products. Minister of Industry and Director of Directorate General for SMIs visited the shop on the opening day and exchanged views with the Local Working Group (LWG) for the cacao processing industry.

While continuing the promotion to the local market, LWG has been introducing chocolate-business to the potential producers (socialization and cooking class of couverture) to nurture more actors of this local industry.

Chocolate products delivered to Carrefour (middle)

Minister’s (left) visit to chocolate shop at the local airport