Black pod disease and pests such as rats and parrots are becoming major problems at the Matasawalevu cocoa project in Macuata.
Arif Khan who has leased the property says these problems are largely hindering cocoa production.
The Matasawalevu Cocoa project is one of the largest cocoa farms in Fiji with all necessary facilities required for cocoa processing.
It is owned by Matasawalevu Cocoa Co-operative group and over the years, production had dropped drastically.
During its peak production time, the farm has the potential to produce 110 tonnes of dried cocoa beans annually but the current production is close to 1 tonne per year.
Khan of Cacao Fiji intends to develop this farm to its full potential after looking at the potential production of the farm as there are huge markets available for dried cocoa beans.
Recently some fermented cocoa beans were sent to France and the farm has received positive feedback. Khan says this seems to be another strong market where they can supply.
