Ugandan Cocoa Exporters Join the First Online Edition of the Chocoa Trade Fair Amsterdam

This year, the renowned Chocoa Trade Fair Amsterdam went fully virtual. MARKUP, through the International Trade Centre, supported the participation of more than 10 Ugandan cocoa exporters and institutions to the virtual trade fair. Through the event, exporters were able to access new markets and attract new investors.

SME participation in trade fairs is an important opportunity to create business contacts and generate investment lead. Chocoa offered a wide range of opportunities, from virtual networking, knowledge exchange and exploring new business opportunities. In order to familiarise themselves with the online format, exporters received a training on how to engage in negotiations and take advantage of the online booth available on the platform.

Joan Kantu Kamya Elseis a cocoa farmer from Kabarole, Western Uganda. Describing her experience with the virtual trade fair Chocoa Amsterdam, she said: 'It helped me to start thinking positively about my farming and cocoa. The confidence that it has helped me build is very important. I am looking forward to watch my own farm grow’. Joan is optimistic about what is next for Kabarole and its potential to become a key producing region of cocoa in Uganda.