Updated on 08/26/2026

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Cacao - <p>Ecuador is the third largest cocoa producer in the world, with approximately 600,000 hectares under cultivation and a production capacity of 360,000 tons. Two main varieties are offered: Fine Aroma Cocoa (Nacional), recognized worldwide for its unique aroma and flavor, used as the base ingredient for premium gourmet chocolates; and CCN-51, known for its high yield for large-scale chocolate production. Archaeological research has found traces of cocoa in the Ecuadorian Amazon dating back more than 5,000 years, proving that chocolate originated in Ecuador. </p>

Cacao

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Detailed description

Ecuador is the third largest cocoa producer in the world, with approximately 600,000 hectares under cultivation and a production capacity of 360,000 tons. Two main varieties are offered: Fine Aroma Cocoa (Nacional), recognized worldwide for its unique aroma and flavor, used as the base ingredient for premium gourmet chocolates; and CCN-51, known for its high yield for large-scale chocolate production. Archaeological research has found traces of cocoa in the Ecuadorian Amazon dating back more than 5,000 years, proving that chocolate originated in Ecuador.

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    Cacao

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Ecuadorian cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao) are classified under tariff code 1801.00. Two main varieties: Fine Aroma Cocoa (Nacional yellow pods) and CCN-51 (Colección Castro Naranjal red pods). Exported in 69kg burlap, cabuya or polypropylene sacks. Certifications: GlobalG.A.P., BASC, Fairtrade, USDA Organic, Rainforest Alliance, Kosher, EU Organic. Main production zones: Los Ríos, Bolívar, El Oro, Cotopaxi, Cañar, Esmeraldas, Manabí, Guayas, Morona Santiago, Zamora Chinchipe, Napo, Orellana, Sucumbíos, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas.

Exhibitor

Exhibitor

PRO ECUADOR

Pro Ecuador is the official trade and investment promotion agency of Ecuador. Its mission is to strengthen Ecuador’s international positioning.

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