Kota Kinabalu, May 27, 2025 — Malaysia is fast emerging as a key player in Asia’s cocoa landscape, highlighted by the successful conclusion of the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) from May 24–27.
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin underscored Sabah’s role as the heart of the nation’s cocoa industry, contributing around 60% of Malaysia’s total cocoa output, with approximately 6,000 hectares under cultivation by smallholders. This foundational support empowered MICF 2025 to attract participants and exhibitors from 30 countries.
Key Highlights of MICF 2025
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Global Participation: Over 150 exhibitors showcased industry best practices, R&D innovations, and trade opportunities.
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Sustainability & Traceability: Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani emphasised national traceability systems and sustainable farming, as Malaysia processes nearly 370,000 tonnes annually, making it one of the world’s top cocoa grinders
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Economic Impact: Malaysia exported RM15 billion in value-added cocoa products in 2024, signaling a bullish national agenda
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Farmer Support: The government has allocated RM4 million in incentives for seedling distribution and rehabilitation efforts under a 2025–2029 plantation support programme
Industry and Momentum
During the event, Sabah International Convention Centre hosted plenaries, consumer workshops, and live chocolate demonstrations, including Bean-to-Bar sessions. Music performances and prize draws added cultural richness and interactivity.
Director-General of Malaysian Cocoa Board, Datuk Dr Ramle Kasin, noted that organisers intend to rotate future fairs within Sabah or across Malaysia every few years, to maximise local engagement and infrastructure.
Global investors were present, including Nestlé Malaysia, which debuted its KitKat Dark Borneo single-origin chocolate and ice cream—both made with East Malaysian cocoa—as part of its commitment to traceable, sustainable sourcing
Outlook & Opportunities
Malaysia’s renewed cocoa strategy builds on its historical production (peaked at 225,000 MT in 2022/23) by re-investing in:
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Sustainable Farming: Introducing pest-resistant seedlings and agroforestry methods.
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Traceable Value Chains: Digital systems to ensure quality and international compliance.
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Economic Partnerships: Collaboration with multinational processors and chocolate brands like Nestlé.
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SME and Rural Uplift: Empowering smallholders via grants, training, and traceability tools.
With industry stakeholders forecasting a 20–30% increase in cocoa production over the next 5–10 years, and export momentum surging, Malaysia is positioning Sabah as a centre of agricultural excellence for cocoa in Asia.
Call to Action:
For cocoa buyers, chocolate brands, and agritech partners considering expansion in Asia, MICF 2025 signals Malaysia's rising credibility and capacity. Watch this space for updates on trade partnerships, seedling programmes, and the next MICF event.
