Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting Cocoa from Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the world’s largest cocoa producers and plays a significant role in the global industry. The country boasts fertile lands, a favorable climate, and a well-established supply chain that supports its cocoa sector.  However, exporting cocoa in Indonesia requires a deep understanding of international trade regulations, logistics, and market trends. 

The Growing Cocoa Industry in Indonesia 

Indonesia’s cocoa processing industry has seen remarkable growth, strengthening its position in the global cocoa sector. In 2024, the export value of processed cocoa reached USD 2.62 billion (approximately IDR 42.69 trillion), contributing 1.05% to Indonesia’s non-oil and gas exports. 

According to Putu Juli Ardika, Director General of Agro-Industry, the previous year’s processed cocoa exports were valued at USD 1.2 billion (around IDR 19.5 trillion), accounting for 3.92% of the global cocoa market. This rapid increase highlights Indonesia’s growing influence in exporting cocoa. 

Indonesia is now the 4th largest exporter of processed cocoa products, with 70-80% of its production being exported to over 100 countries. Some top destinations for Indonesia’s cocoa exports include India, the United States, the European Union, China, and Malaysia. 

Major Cocoa-Producing Regions 

A closer look at the cocoa industry in Indonesia reveals that the island of Sulawesi dominates cocoa bean production. Central Sulawesi contributes 19.9% of the country’s total cocoa output, followed by Southeast Sulawesi with 16.1%. 

Both provinces rely entirely on smallholder farmers, which are crucial in supplying Indonesian cocoa for domestic use and exporting cocoa to international markets. After Sulawesi, Sumatra ranks as the second-largest cocoa-producing region in Indonesia. However, other islands and areas contribute only to national cocoa bean production. 

Top Importing Countries for Indonesian Cocoa 

Indonesia is the 4th largest exporter of processed cocoa products, with its exports reaching over 100 countries. The cocoa sector benefits from strong international demand, particularly from countries that rely on Indonesia cocoa for chocolate production and other confectionery products. 

Why Are These Countries Importing Cocoa from Indonesia? 

• India: One of Indonesia’s fastest-growing cocoa markets, driven by rising chocolate consumption. 
• United States: A top buyer of processed cocoa products, including cocoa butter and cocoa powder. 
• European Union: A major hub for global chocolate production, requiring steady, high-quality supplies of Indonesian cocoa. 
• China: There is an Increasing demand for premium chocolate and cocoa-based products. 
• Malaysia: A key player in the cocoa processing industry, Indonesian cocoa is used as raw material. 

What are the Requirements for Exporting Cocoa from Indonesia? 

Indonesia’s cocoa sector continues to thrive, positioning the country as a key global exporter of cocoa and processed products. However, businesses must comply with Indonesian export regulations and international trade requirements to export cocoa from Indonesia.  

The government has established several rules to ensure that the cocoa sector remains competitive while maintaining product quality. Exporters in the cocoa industry in Indonesia must adhere to the following regulations: 

• Business Licensing: Companies must obtain a Business Identification Number (NIB) from the Indonesian Ministry of Trade. 
• Exporter Registration: Cocoa exporters must be registered under the Indonesian Cocoa Association (ASKINDO) or relevant trade bodies. 
• Product Quality Standards: Indonesian cocoa must meet national and international standards, such as: 
  • SNI (Indonesian National Standard) for cocoa beans and processed cocoa. 
  • International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) grading system. 
• Phytosanitary Certification: Issued by the Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency, confirming that the cocoa beans are free from pests and diseases. 
• Export Declaration: The Directorate General of Customs and Excise requires the approval of cocoa shipments. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting Cocoa from Indonesia 

Exporting Indonesian cocoa involves several key steps to ensure compliance with trade regulations and smooth logistics. 

• Register as an exporter. 
• Meet quality standards. 
• Obtain export documents. 
• Arrange shipment and logistics. 
• Deliver to international buyers. 

Challenges in Exporting Cocoa from Indonesia 

Despite Indonesia’s strong position in the global cocoa industry, exporters face several challenges that impact the cocoa sector in Indonesia: 

• Climate Change & Crop Failures: Unpredictable weather affects cocoa bean production, reducing supply for export. 
• Rising Global Cocoa Prices: Shortages in Ghana and the Ivory Coast, the world’s top producers, have increased costs. 
• Strict Export Regulations: Compliance with phytosanitary standards, quality control, and certification can be time-consuming. 
• Supply Chain Issues: Limited access to high-quality raw materials affects the cocoa processing industry. 
• International Competition: Indonesia competes with major exporters like West Africa and South America. 

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Get Expert Support for Exporting Cocoa from Indonesia with InCorp 

To successfully export cocoa from Indonesia, businesses need a valid export license, compliance with customs regulations, and quality certifications. Managing these requirements can be complex, but InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) offers professional assistance to simplify the process. 

Our export service helps businesses: 

• Obtain an export license quickly and efficiently 
• Ensured compliance with Indonesian and international trade laws 
• Handling customs clearance and documentation 
• Streamline logistics for smooth cocoa exports 

Streamline cocoa export operations, access global markets, and maximize success by completing the form below.