Australia has announced further support for Solomon Islands’ cocoa industry through a new processing facility to be built at Cathliro in Honiara.
Australia has been supporting local businesses in the productive sector (such as coconut, cocoa and cassava) to diversify their products, boost domestic sales and exports and employ more people.
The new facility will support Cathliro increase its production of value-added cocoa products, boost local manufacturing, and help the company meet international export requirements.
The Australian High Commission joined the team at Cathliro at a ground-breaking ceremony, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the Solomon Islands’ cocoa industry.
Australia’s private sector development program, Strongim Bisnis, has been supporting Cathliro since 2019, assisting to diversify its value-added cocoa product offerings and expand into new export markets.
The Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Rod Hilton, emphasised the importance of partnerships with SMEs to drive sustainable economic growth in the Solomon Islands.
“We are proud to support Cathliro in this significant expansion of its chocolate processing facility,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
“This partnership is a testament to the potential of the Solomon Islands’ cocoa industry to compete on a global scale, providing more jobs for local farmers and contributing to the country’s economic growth.”
The new facility will enable Cathliro to increase its production capacity for cocoa paste to over 20 metric tonnes and cocoa nibs to over 50 metric tonnes.
With increased output, Cathliro will be able to expand its exports to markets such as Australia, the UK, and Ireland.
This expansion will also allow Cathliro to procure more cocoa beans from local farmers, enhancing their incomes and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Cathliro’s Managing Director, Diana Yates, expressed her excitement about the expansion and the ongoing support of the Australian Government.
“This new facility is a game-changer for Cathliro,” Ms Yates said.
“With the support of Australia we are now able to significantly scale up our operations, tap into new markets, and ensure that our cocoa products continue to meet the highest standards of quality.”
The expansion of Cathliro’s processing facility will also cater to growing demand for locally produced chocolate within Solomon Islands.
Leading hotels, cafes, and retailers have already expressed interest in featuring Cathliro’s products on their menus, further supporting the growth of the local cocoa industry.
The Australian Government is committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ economic development through empowering local businesses, boosting sales and exports and creating jobs.
- AHC
