The World Cocoa Foundation invites all stakeholders committed to shaping a sustainable future for the cocoa and chocolate supply chain to the 2025 Partnership Meeting in São Paulo, Brazil. This leading global event takes place this year under the theme of 'Our Future: Resilience Through Sustainability'. Members,  farmer organisations, donors, decision-makers and thought leaders will come together to chart a new course forward.

This annual event unites cocoa farmers and experts from companies, governments, academia, financial donors and philanthropists, civil society and press in a single forum for discussion, collaboration and shared progress on sustainability in a dialogue meant to help us align for global action. We look forward to seeing you there as we shape the future of our sector together.

Our Future: Resilience Through Sustainability

Today, we find ourselves at a critical moment for the cocoa sector. Farmers face mounting challenges including tree disease, climate change, declining productivity and new regulations that pose high hurdles for compliance. As this drives a supply deficit, markets are fluctuating with severe volatility. Industry and governments are being pressed to achieve progress on sustainability issues now. Resilience for the entire sector – environmentally, socially and economically – has never been more of an imperative.

These interlinked challenges offer us an unprecedented chance to elevate how we work together across the cocoa sector. Our individual and collective resilience rests on our ability to understand the drivers of the current situation and identify solutions to map a new path forward. With Latin America as the setting, the event will focus on how to solve the acute global challenges facing all of us in the sector.

Book your place at the partnership meeting

We are pleased to offer early bird ticket pricing for the Partnership Meeting. This is a great opportunity to secure your place at a reduced rate. Please find the registration fees based on your category of organisation below:

EARLY BIRD PRICE

Available until December 15

WCF MEMBERS : 1430 USD > 1200 USD
WCF NON MEMBERS : 1650 USD > 1430 USD
WCF NGO : 1210 USD > 990 USD
Including:

  • Two-day conference pass

  • Reception on Day 1

  • Access to the Innovation Marketplace

  • Breaks, lunch and refreshments

All conference pass details here

Why you should join in 2025

Insightful Programme Featuring Thought-Leading Speakers

Join us for an insightful agenda featuring sessions on markets, climate impact, agroforestry, regenerative farming and cocoa’s role in prosperity. Plus, get the latest updates on WCF’s impact measurement. Programme highlights and featured sessions here

New Voices and Stakeholders

Around 450 people from more than 40 countries representing the cocoa supply chain and beyond. The event includes diverse perspectives and cross-commodity stakeholders and welcomes farmer organisations, governments and civil society organisations. Networking can start before the event as we will introduce an app featuring the agenda, speakers and showing all participants. More to come!

Global South-South Exchange

This Partnership Meeting offers a unique opportunity to explore Brazil’s cocoa supply chain and engage in South-South exchanges. With Brazil’s potential in sustainable cocoa production, from smallholders to mechanised farms, other countries can gain valuable insights. Delegates will also have the chance to meet Brazilian cocoa growers during field visits. More information here.

Week Schedule

Tuesday
18 March
(by invitation only)  

  • CFI Working Group
  • WCF Membership Assembly
  • WCF Member Reception
    Woman in Cocoa & Chocolate (WINCC) Reception

Wednesday
19 March

  • Partnership Meeting
  • Partnership Meeting
  • Reception by AIPC

Thursday
20 March

  • Innovation Marketplace
    Partnership Meeting
  • Partnership Meeting
  •  

Friday
21 March

  • Brazil Session
    São Paulo
  • Start of Field Trip to Bahia
    (until March 25th)
  •  

Agenda

The 2025 agenda addresses key cocoa sector issues, covers cocoa market trends, sustainable sourcing, resilience and regulatory impacts and much more. It also features WCF signature sessions such as Fireside Chats with policymakers and C-Suite stakeholders. Find below our full 2-day agenda. 

  • 09:00 Opening Remarks
  • 09:30 Plenary Keynote: The macroeconomics of commodities

    This keynote delivers a global update on agricultural commodities, focusing on cocoa and analysing the impacts of climate change, regulations, and inflation on prices, production and demand worldwide.

  • 09:40 Plenary session: World cocoa economics

    Experts will highlight how sustainable practices and resilient supply chains drive economic benefits, market stability, and brand reputation in the cocoa industry, highlighting the role of business models, governance and shifting consumer preferences.

  • 10:30 Cocoa Break
  • 11:00 Breakout Sessions

    #1: The future of indirect sourcing

    This session will explore how evolving demands for traceability, regulation, and transparency are reshaping sourcing approaches and cocoa supply chains. Experts will discuss strategies for achieving compliance while balancing efficiency, ethical sourcing, and sustainability, as well as the roles of traders, governments, and markets in adapting to these shifts.

    #2: Reliable data for forest monitoring and greenhouse gas accounting

    Experts from forest management, academia, and the private sector will examine the complexities of forest monitoring and greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, focusing on accurately measuring deforestation, reforestation, and carbon flux, as well as how the cocoa industry can enhance data standards for climate and environmental management.

    #3: Understanding household income patterns to scale living income interventions

    Explore the latest Cocoa Household Income Study (CHIS) methodology, developed by WCF and research partners, insights on accurately measuring cocoa household income to shape impactful interventions, with discussions on the latest pilot results and expert perspectives from researchers, government, industry and farmers.

  • 12:30 Lunch Break
  • 14:30 Fireside Chat: World cocoa politics

    Hear from policymakers from the EU, USA, Latin America and West Africa for an insightful discussion on the future of cocoa. They will address import regulations, sustainability goals, and the strategies cocoa-exporting countries are adopting to enhance quality, revenue, and community impact.

  • 15:30 Cocoa Break
  • 16:00 Breakout Sessions

    #4: Are the EUDR and CS3D making cocoa sustainable?

    The EU’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) are setting the stage for sustainable supply chains, and this session will focus on their implications for the cocoa sector. Key topics include evaluating the effectiveness of these regulations, opportunities and challenges for compliance, and the potential impact they can deliver for cocoa sustainability.

    #5: Disease management: Preventing disaster and unlocking opportunities for growth

    Plant pathologists, field practitioners, cocoa sector representatives, and multilateral organisations from Latin America and Africa will share insights on managing cocoa diseases such as Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD), Monilla, and Witches’ Broom. They will focus on effective strategies and the economic benefits of addressing these challenges.

    #6: How technical assistance and mechanisation can drive profitability and attract a new generation of farmers

    Mechanisation in cocoa farming provides various benefits, with its impact depending on farm size and affecting profitability and innovation. By examining global experiences, including those in coffee farming, the discussion will focus on how smallholder farmers can benefit from innovative technologies and effective technical assistance strategies.

  • 17:30 Reception – Sponsored by AIPC
  • 09:00 Innovation Marketplace

    A platform for organisations and companies that drive innovative solutions to challenges within the cocoa sector.

  • 10:30 Opening & Plenary keynote - World cocoa & chocolate consumer preferences

    The keynote will explore evolving global consumer preferences, focusing on Latin American trends and their impact on cocoa demand, production and sustainability.

  • 10:55 Fireside chat C-suite: World cocoa business investments

    This signature panel will host Chief Sustainability Officers who will discuss the business economics of sustainability investments, balancing profitability with societal expectations. The panel will address the impact of shortages, cocoa substitutes, and the importance of supply chain governance in shaping sustainability policies.

  • 11:30 Plenary session: Mapping your way out of the maze of carbon claims

    Gain insights on how the cocoa sector can reduce deforestation and curb carbon emissions amid rising scrutiny, with insights on investment frameworks, actionable carbon strategies, and the economic benefits for farmers and cocoa communities. The session is led by experts from climate organisations, finance and the cocoa industry.

  • 12:20 Lunch Break
  • 14:00 Breakout Sessions

    #7: Creating an enabling environment for farmer investments

    Traceability and transparency in cocoa production can enhance economic viability and attract investment while promoting sustainability. Experts will discuss strategies such as technical assistance, finance models, risk management, and market incentives to build a resilient and equitable cocoa industry.

    #8: The real business case for investment in agroforestry and biodiversity

    As the cocoa industry faces challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss, experts will explore how using agroforestry systems to protect biodiversity can deliver environmental, economic and community benefits, along with strategies for integrating farmer and community priorities.

    #9: Investing in farmer and community health and social protection 

    A holistic approach to farmer and community health is essential for cocoa supply chain sustainability, combating child labour and boosting living standards. The discussion will focus on integrating social equity, safety and support initiatives to foster resilient cocoa communities.

  • 15:30 Cocoa Break
  • 16:00 World cocoa social policies

    The cocoa sector is united in its commitment to combat child labour, recognising the importance of public-private partnerships and financial investment for lasting change. Discussions will centre on how the EU’s CSDDD can drive scalable solutions to tackle the root causes.

  • 16:50 Closing Plenary – Our Future: Resilience Through Sustainability

    This is another signature panel of the Partnership Meeting where (regional) associations for cocoa and chocolate will share the stage and discuss the learnings and reflections of the past two days and the impact on their associations’ policies.

  • 17:40 Closing remarks
  • 18:00 End of meeting

Coming soon.

Thank you to our sponsors

If you are interested in a sponsorship package, you can find more information here and contact us at wcfpm@worldcocoa.org

Platinum

Gold

Reception

Silver

Bronze

Cocoa Contributor

Media Partner

Join the Innovation Marketplace
at the WCF 2025 Partnership Meeting

The Innovation Marketplace is a key highlight of the Partnership Meeting. It provides a platform for organisations and companies that drive innovative solutions to challenges within the cocoa sector, aligned with the theme of 'Resilience Through Sustainability'.

The Marketplace will occur exclusively on 20 March 2025, 08:30 – 10:00 am. It offers exhibitors an opportunity to showcase their initiatives, share their knowledge, and connect with influential stakeholders from around the world. This is an excellent chance to present breakthrough ideas and network with industry leaders, donors, and experts in the cocoa sustainability field.

If your organisation works on innovative approaches that could have a tangible and scalable impact, we encourage you to apply for a booth at the Innovation Marketplace. There is no exhibition fee, but participants need to register for the Partnership Meeting.

Apply here

We recommend an early registration as spaces are limited. If you have any questions for us, please reach out to wcfpm@worldcocoa.org.

Venue

Tivoli Mofarrej São Paulo Hotel

Address:
Alameda Santos, 1437 Cerqueira César
São Paulo, BR-SP 01419-001

Explore the Venue in 3D Here

Hotel Information

We have partnered with select hotels to offer exclusive rates to participants of the WCF 2025 Partnership Meeting. We highly recommend booking early as availability may become limited closer to the event date.

Tivoli Mofarrej São Paulo Hotel

Located in the heart of São Paulo, Tivoli Mofarrej offers a luxurious stay with stunning views of the city. Special rates are available exclusively for WCF 2025 attendees. Book your room directly on their website using the promo code WCFPM2025 in the "Apply Promo Code" section.

Room Price Range:
BRL 1,600.00 to BRL 2,550.00 + 5% taxes

Please note: subject to availability!

Reserve

More Hotel Options

Renaissance São Paulo Hotel

Address:
Alameda Santos, 2233 - Jardim Paulista, São Paulo - SP, 01419-002

Located in the vibrant Jardim Paulista neighbourhood, the Renaissance São Paulo Hotel offers a sophisticated and comfortable stay with modern amenities and exceptional service. The hotel is located only 0.8 km from the venue.

Reserve

Canopy by Hilton São Paulo Jardins

Address:
R. Saint Hilaire, 40 - Jardim Paulista, São Paulo - SP, 01423-040

Located in the vibrant Jardins district, Canopy by Hilton São Paulo offers city views, complimentary bikes, and rooftop dining at Barno. The hotel is located only 1.2 km from the venue.

Reserve

 

We are working with other hotels to offer more accommodation choices.
Details will be added shortly, stay tuned!

Other Travel Information

São Paulo is a vibrant city and we want to ensure you have a smooth experience getting to and around the city.

Air Travel

São Paulo is served by Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), with direct flights from major international destinations. We recommend booking your flights early to ensure the best rates and availability.

Local Transportation

Taxi & Ride-sharing: Uber, 99, and Cabify are popular ride-sharing services.
Public Transport: São Paulo has an extensive metro system and buses for city-wide travel.
Car Rentals: Car rentals are available at the airport and throughout the city for those who prefer to drive.

Visa Information

All international conference participants must possess a passport and other travel documents (hotel reservation and travel insurance) when entering Brazil. Each participant is responsible for his/her travel arrangements and for requesting a visa beforehand, as per the applicable laws. We strongly recommend that all participants check, as soon as possible, the rules for entering Brazil that apply to them. We also recommend requesting visas at the country of origin at least 3 months before travelling.

The Visit Visa (VIVIS) allows for up to 90 days in Brazil and is the recommended visa for attending the conference. Citizens from Mercosul can enter Brazil solely with their photo ID card (physical document/original document), while citizens from other countries must carry a passport. Additionally, Brazil offers visa exemptions to several countries. Please check this information with the Brazilian Embassy/Consulate in your country.

More information here:
Information about visas for foreigners that travel to Brazil (Official website Ministry of External Relations Brazil, information in PT and EN)
Entry Visa to Brazil - list of countries (updated June 2024 by Brasilian Ministry of External Relations)

Invitation Letter

An invitation letter for visa purposes can be issued (if needed), upon request from the participant.

  1. Please contact Mrs. Viviane Fernandes (travel agency partner in Brazil) via e-mail.
  2. Please share your full name, passport number and confirmation of registration to the 2025 Partnership Meeting.
  3. The Invitation letter will be sent to you via e-mail (as a PDF document).

A unique opportunity to experience Brazilian cocoa production and innovation!

Join us in experiencing the cocoa recovery in Bahia. Engage with the excitement of the sector around Brazil’s sustainable comeback and discover growth opportunities based on the implementation of good practices and mechanisation to achieve higher productivity and increase farmer income.

From Friday 21 March until Tuesday 25 March, WCF and our local partners will organise a specially curated, learning-focused field trip to the cocoa-producing region of Bahia. Participants will have the opportunity to visit various cocoa properties, both smallholders and larger farms, that adopt modern techniques and are highly productive. We will learn about the uniqueness and diversity of Brazil’s different production systems, from Cabruca and agroforestry systems to full-sun production. We will also visit R&D facilities and have the opportunity to hear directly from Brazilian producers, exchanging thoughts and ideas with fellow cocoa professionals whilst experiencing Brazil’s unique hospitality and culture.

Location

Bahia - Ilhéus and surrounding areas.

Dates

Departing Sao Paulo on Friday 21 March, arriving back in Sao Paulo on Tuesday 25 March am.

Costs

The fee to join the field trip will cover the domestic flights (São Paulo – Ilhéus – São Paulo), ground transportation in A/C van (with driver) and 4-night hotel accommodation in Bahia (Breakfast included) to be paid directly to our travel partner in Brazil. Estimated cost per person is USD830 (for a 15-person group), which is subject to change based on group size.

Interested?

Register for the Partnership Meeting and select the corresponding checkbox option. Please reserve your place before 15 December 2024, as we expect high interest and have limited places. Final costs and details will be shared by January 2025. Followed by the request for upfront payment to secure your place. 

 

Important notice for field trip participants 

Please be aware that access restrictions may apply when visiting cocoa areas in Brazil. Participants who have recently visited regions affected by Monilia (Frosty Pod Rot) may be restricted from joining the field trip. The Fungus Moniliophthora Roreri, is not yet present in cocoa-producing areas in Brazil and poses a significant threat to plantations. We are working closely with CEPLAC (Cocoa Commission of the Ministry of Agriculture) and Brazilian plant health authorities to monitor the situation. We will inform participants in advance if specific countries or regions are restricted.

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