National Cocoa Commission celebrates 50th anniversary in Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic Agriculture Minister Francisco Oliverio Espaillat led a commemorative event marking the 50th anniversary of the National Cocoa Commission. Espaillat described the cocoa value chain as the “backbone of the economies of several regions of the country,” noting that these areas enjoy significantly better living standards due to the crop's consistent contributions.

During the ceremony, officials highlighted the Commission's role in promoting sustainable growth through producer training, the adoption of good agricultural practices, and improving grain quality to enhance the international competitiveness of Dominican cocoa. Commission Director Víctor Hidalgo reaffirmed a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the integral development of the cocoa sector.

The event also featured participation from Kishan Dan Dewal, a representative of the Embassy of India, highlighting opportunities for international cooperation and the strengthening of bilateral relations in agricultural trade and knowledge exchange.