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Saturday, 17 October 2026

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Malaysia’s Cocoa Ambition Needs More Than New Plantations

Sarawak's cocoa expansion could strengthen domestic supply, but Malaysia's bigger opportunity lies in creating higher-value products and stronger returns for local producers.

By Katherine (Kay)3 min read
Seedlings of cocoa trees are pictured at a plantation managed by the Schmidt Agricola farming group in Bahia state, Brazil, in this undated handout photo received on September 25, 2023. Moises Almeida Schmidt/Handout via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES - RC28H3A8PB3F

Kuala Lumpur, 17 October 2026 – Malaysia has an established chocolate manufacturing industry, yet it continues to rely heavily on imported cocoa beans. Now, the Malaysian Cocoa Board is looking at expanding cultivation in Sarawak to strengthen domestic supply.

On 17 October, the board highlighted opportunities to increase cocoa production in Sarawak alongside Sabah, Malaysia’s main cocoa-producing state.

The initiative could help narrow the country’s dependence on imported dried cocoa beans over the next two to three years, as newly planted trees begin producing.

The board is also supporting opportunities in chocolate processing and higher-value products, including single-origin chocolate associated with different growing locations.

These developments are encouraging.

But increasing the number of cocoa trees should not be the industry’s only ambition.

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Author

  • Kay like to explores the intersection of money, power, and the curious humans behind them. With a flair for storytelling and a soft spot for market drama, she brings a fresh and sharp voice to Southeast Asia’s business scene.
    Her work blends analysis with narrative, turning headlines into human stories that cut through the noise. Whether unpacking boardroom maneuvers, policy shifts, or the personalities shaping regional markets, Kay offers readers a perspective that is both insightful and relatable — always with a touch of wit.