Cocoa farming in Indonesia faces considerable challenges due to climate change and financial instability, affecting thousands of farmers. Cocoa trees require consistent temperatures, balanced humidity, and sufficient sunlight to thrive, making them particularly vulnerable to extreme weather. Rising global temperatures, prolonged rainy seasons, and increased pest infestations have significantly reduced crop yields. Consequently, many farmers have shifted to alternative crops, decreasing cocoa supplies and driving prices to record levels. In 2024, cocoa prices surged to approximately $12,000 per ton, forcing some chocolate manufacturers to explore laboratory-based cocoa production. As the world’s third-largest cocoa producer, Indonesia has witnessed substantial efforts by businesses and organizations to enhance farming methods and secure stable incomes for cocoa farmers.

In response to these adversities, cocoa farmers have adopted improved agricultural techniques with the guidance of organizations such as Krakakoa. These techniques include pruning, grafting, and employing organic fertilizers to sustain cocoa tree growth and mitigate disease. Agroforestry practices have also gained prominence, encouraging farmers to plant crops like bananas, coffee, and pepper alongside cocoa trees to maintain ecological balance and diversify income. Collaborative efforts between Indonesian farmers, businesses, and nonprofit groups have fostered cooperative systems that provide low-interest loans, empowering farmers with financial support. Additionally, the Indonesian government’s partnership with Mars, Incorporated, a major chocolate company known for brands like Snickers and M&M’s, has introduced a cocoa variant that enhances productivity. Despite these advancements, many farmers still struggle to secure larger loans, and some hesitate to remain in cocoa farming due to financial uncertainty. Experts believe continued collaboration can revitalize the sector, ensuring stability and prosperity for Indonesian cocoa producers.