UK provides cocoa-processing machine to local producer in Solomon Islands
British High Commissioner Paul Turner has provided a new cocoa processing machine to the social enterprise, KOSI, helping increase production and export opportunities.
British High Commissioner, Paul Turner with KOSI managers, Clare Magusi and Maureen Taro and CEO Bob Pollard.
On Friday 9 October, British High Commissioner, Paul Turner handed over a new cocoa processing machine to the social enterprise, Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands (KOSI).
KOSI is looking to grow its business and increase the value added to locally produced cocoa, creating greater benefits for local producers.
KOSI was established in Honiara in 2004, processing both coconuts and cocoa. Today, it supports over 1,000 farmers across the country, providing training, market access and business opportunities that strengthen rural incomes and local employment.
The company provides the vital link between farmers and international markets, sourcing cocoa from its network of village producers. It has been recognised nationally for its contribution to agribusiness, exports and community development.
Speaking at the hand-over, High Commissioner Paul Turner said:
The UK is proud to partner with social enterprises like KOSI that provide the crucial link between farmers and international markets, adding value to local products and helping communities prosper across Solomon Islands.
The new cocoa machine is expected to increase production of chocolate paste and finished chocolate products, helping the business meet local demand while supporting exports to international markets, including the United Kingdom and New Zealand. KOSI has grown its domestic market such that 50% of its cocoa produce is now consumed within Solomon Islands.
In recent years, the UK has increased its engagement with the cocoa sector in Solomon Islands. In 2024, several UK cocoa buyers visited the country to build new partnerships with local producers. The visit resulted in Solomon Islands cocoa being selected as the source ingredient for a new UK chocolate brand, Cocoa Sisters.
The UK also supported Solomon Islands cocoa bean producers and chocolate makers to exhibit their produce at the Amsterdam “Chocoa” Fair in February 2025 – Europe’s largest cocoa trade event. This helped establish connections between Solomon Islands producers and prospective buyers in the UK and across Europe.