Conacado

Growing cocoa in the Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, cocoa production is steeped in a rich history dating back to the Tainos, the island's first inhabitants. The cocoa varieties grown in the region are carefully monitored to prevent productive clones from taking over, thus preserving the distinctive and unique strain of Dominican cocoa, an ancestral heritage.

To support this age-old tradition, we work closely with local cooperatives, offering essential support to small producers. Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen and empower rural communities, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices that preserve land for future generations through agroforestry.

Cocoa from the Dominican Republic embodies the fusion of tradition and innovation. By supporting small-scale farmers organized into cooperatives, we are helping to shape a future in which cocoa continues to play a central role in the economic and cultural fabric of the northern Dominican Republic.

Founded in 1985, CONACADO (Confederación nacional de cacaocultores dominicanos) is today one of the biggest cocoa producers' organizations in the country.

A committed cooperative

By building a factory for processing cocoa into various derivatives (powder, butter and mix), the cooperative is working to create a modern, internationally renowned cocoa supply while improving producers’ living conditions. It does this by focusing on producing high - quality cocoa and on sustainable farm management, coupled with support for community development and environmental protection. 
CONACADO’s numerous certifications - including Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, Fairtrade and Organic (USDA and EU) – are a testament to this commitment. The cooperative’s vision, history and respected position in the Dominican make it a partner of choice for Valrhona.