Peruvian Cocoa Origins Presented to Swiss Buyers in Zurich
SIPPO accompanied its strategic partner Agromercado in an exclusive cocoa and chocolate tasting session held on June 5 in Zurich, Switzerland, with the aim of promoting Peruvian origin cocoa, strengthening international commercial linkages, and identifying new business opportunities for the sector.
The event brought together specialized buyers, representatives from Swissco, Swisscontact, SIPPO Switzerland, and stakeholders involved in the cocoa and chocolate trade. The activity highlighted the extraordinary genetic diversity of Peruvian cocoa, emphasizing that Peru is home to 16 of the 25 cocoa genetic groups identified worldwide, a unique asset that positions the country among the leading global references for this product.
The session began with a presentation by PROMPERÚ on Peru’s cocoa export offering, the development of the chocolate sector, and the commercial opportunities available to international buyers. Participants were also invited to attend the next Salón del Cacao y Chocolate in Lima, including the business matchmaking event organized by the institution.
Agromercado then led a specialized tasting of origin cocoa samples from six regions renowned for their fine and premium cocoa production: Ucayali (Banaqui), Loreto (Cabal), Amazonas (Yakatheo), Junín (Sonomoro), Madre de Dios (Itahuania), and San Martín (Río Abiseo). Participants received detailed information on each origin through promotional materials and digital tools specifically developed for the event.
One of the highlights of the session was the distribution of a sensory kit containing 32 chocolate samples made from 16 genetic groups found across 14 regions of Peru. Each origin was presented in both 70% and 100% cocoa versions, allowing participants to identify distinctive aromas, flavors, territorial characteristics, and sensory profiles.
The session also served as a platform to strengthen connections between institutions and potential buyers. Representatives from Agromercado, PROMPERÚ, and the Lima Chamber of Commerce exchanged contacts and information with attendees, who expressed interest in learning more about Peru’s cocoa offering and participating in commercial events in the country.
Connecting Peru’s Biodiversity with High-Value Markets
Through initiatives such as this, SIPPO continues to support the international promotion of products with strong export potential, helping bring the richness, diversity, and quality of Peruvian cocoa to specialized buyers and high-value markets across Europe.