AN GIANG PROVINCE’S GOVERNMENT SUPPORTS BITTERSWEET IN DEVELOPING A CHOCOLATE PRODUCTION MODEL IN PHU QUOC

Through the local industrial promotion programme, the technical demonstration project proposed by Cacao Mặn Mà Phú Quốc Co., Ltd. aims to modernise production facilities, enhance the value of cacao processing, and contribute to the development of locally distinctive products linked to tourism.

With a commitment to advancing cacao processing in a professional and sustainable manner, Cacao Mặn Mà Phú Quốc Co., Ltd. is developing a project entitled “Establishment of a Technical Demonstration Model for Chocolate Production.” The project aims to upgrade its machinery and equipment, strengthen production capacity, and progressively develop chocolate into a higher-value product for the domestic market and Phu Quoc’s tourism sector.

The project has been developed with guidance and coordination from the Economic, Infrastructure and Urban Affairs Division of Phu Quoc Special Zone in preparing the application for local industrial promotion funding. This initiative forms part of broader efforts to encourage technology adoption in rural industries, diversify agricultural processing activities, and support local economic development.

Investing in Technology to Strengthen Chocolate Production Capacity

Through market research and the development of cacao-based products, Mặn Mà has identified opportunities for chocolate in the premium processed food segment, particularly in consumer products and gifts for tourists.

To meet increasingly diverse market demands, investment in an integrated equipment system and the refinement of production processes are essential. The project focuses on establishing a modern chocolate production model that reduces reliance on manual operations, improves product consistency, and enhances raw material utilisation.

The proposed total investment is more than VND 4.27 billion. Of this amount, the company plans to contribute more than VND 3.55 billion, while over VND 715 million in local industrial promotion funding has been requested.

Chocolate production facility in Phu Quoc, geared toward modern and streamlined processing.

The proposed equipment includes the SELMI LEGEND chocolate machine, SELMI RS200 chocolate enrobing machine, cacao roaster, GR25 grinding machines, a cacao bean cracking and winnowing machine, panning machines, and supporting equipment for temperature control and storage. This integrated investment is expected to improve production efficiency, expand product formats, and deliver greater consistency across chocolate batches.

Refining the Process from Cacao Beans to Finished Chocolate

At the heart of the project is a technical demonstration model built around a structured production process, covering incoming raw material inspection, roasting, shell removal, grinding and heat treatment, followed by moulding, cooling, finishing and packaging.

The application of advanced machinery will enable the company to exercise greater control over processing parameters while improving its ability to maintain consistent product quality and sensory characteristics. Alongside equipment investment, the company aims to strengthen its food safety practices, production standards and raw material traceability.

Finalizing the production line represents a core target of the technical demonstration project.

Once completed and operating at a stable level, the model is designed to achieve an estimated annual production capacity of approximately 40,000 kg. The planned product range includes chocolate bars, chocolate pieces, chocolate-coated nuts, pralines and other products suited to the gift market and local speciality segment.

Beyond production, the model is also intended to serve as a technical demonstration site where organisations and individuals can visit, exchange knowledge and learn about the application of technology in cacao and chocolate processing in Phu Quoc.

Creating Local Employment and Developing Products with a Distinctive Local Identity

In addition to its production and commercial objectives, the project seeks to deliver long-term benefits to the local community. According to the plan, once the model reaches stable operation, the company expects to provide regular employment for approximately 22 local workers, with an average monthly income of around VND 7 million per person.

Employees will receive training in production processes, equipment operation, quality control and food safety and hygiene. This will help them progressively develop their technical skills and gain greater familiarity with technology used in food processing.

For Phu Quoc, the development of chocolate products will not only expand the range of locally processed goods but also create further opportunities to connect food production with cultural experiences and tourism. Products developed with an emphasis on quality, design and commercial value could broaden the range of gifts available to visitors while promoting Phu Quoc through cacao-based products.

A Long-Term Commitment to Sustainable Development

For Cacao Mặn Mà Phú Quốc Co., Ltd., investing in an improved production model marks an important step towards building professional chocolate processing capabilities, enhancing product quality and expanding market reach.

Through this project, the company aims to combine investment, technology adoption and workforce development to improve operational efficiency while contributing to the growth of rural industries in alignment with Phu Quoc’s tourism strengths.

Coordination with relevant authorities under the local industrial promotion programme provides an important foundation for the company to progressively refine its production model, adopt appropriate technologies and strengthen its competitiveness. Over the long term, Mặn Mà aims to develop chocolate into a value-added processed product that enriches Phu Quoc’s portfolio of distinctive local offerings.