A new global project aimed at strengthening Samoa’s cocoa value chain was launched during an inception workshop jointly hosted by FAO and the Government of Samoa. Funded by China through the FAO-China South-South Cooperation Programme, the initiative positions Samoa as a “demonstration country” whose progress and innovations will guide other Pacific Island nations. The project falls under FAO’s One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) Initiative, which supports eight Pacific Island Countries in promoting their unique agricultural products, with cocoa designated as Samoa’s priority crop.
During the opening, Samoa’s Associate Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries highlighted that the country’s experience in developing its cocoa sector will offer valuable lessons for other nations in the region. Cocoa is one of Samoa’s most widely grown permanent crops, providing smallholder farmers—especially women and youth—with livelihood opportunities. With Samoa facing one of the world’s highest obesity rates, the expansion of cocoa-based products rich in beneficial flavanols also offers potential health benefits, including reducing risks of cardiovascular disease.
China’s Ambassador to Samoa emphasized that the project marks a significant milestone in the 50 years of China–Samoa diplomatic relations. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to sharing knowledge and technology to further agricultural development. As a demonstration country, Samoa will receive support to improve its cocoa production, processing, storage, and market access, while also adopting sustainable technologies and building partnerships with research institutions.
The seven other Pacific Island countries participating in the OCOP Initiative will gain from Samoa’s shared experiences. Globally, 14 additional demonstration countries will also be supported through this USD 5 million project, reinforcing South-South and triangular cooperation. FAO officials stressed that each island nation’s unique agricultural products—from taro to cassava to cocoa—hold immense potential to improve nutrition and increase farmer incomes. FAO reiterated its commitment to helping Pacific Island states strengthen food security and transition to more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems.
