The 2019 edition of Salon Du Chocolat — the world’s largest chocolate event — is ongoing in Porte De Versailles-Paris, France.
The five-day chocolate event was opened on 30th October 2019 with glitz and glamour. The 2019 edition, which marks the 25th anniversary of the fair, is dedicated to cocoa and chocolate makers across the world.
A delegation of cocoa industry players within the Ghanaian cocoa fraternity led by industry regulator Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is fully representing Ghana at the fair.
COCOBOD and other institutions, including the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) and cocoa processors/manufacturers, have participated in the event over the years to exhibit and explore investment opportunities within the cocoa value chain, especially in the areas of processing and consumption.
Jane Yeboah, Public Affairs Manager of COCOBOD, who led the team, said the fair presented a good opportunity for Ghana as one of the leading producers and exporter of cocoa beans to market itself at such an event.
“This is a very important fair. Considering the number of investors, chocolate makers and various cocoa producers here, it is imperative to work and attract foreign investors to establish the necessary relationships since it is one of the most promising markets for chocolate worldwide,” she added.
Ms. Yeboah said that the exhibition would afford ‘chocolatiers’ and exhibitors the opportunity to communicate with the Ghana delegation and exchange ideas which would eventually be in the best interest of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
In addition to Ghana Cocoa Board, the Ghana delegation for this year comprises officials from the GIPC, GEPA and a ‘chocolatier’— Sweet Hub Confectionary.
The 2019 exhibition is hosting over 230 exhibitors from more than 60 countries and has attracted buyers and professionals from the international market with an expected 100,000 visitors.