THE Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA) has stepped up its efforts to revitalise the cocoa sector with the recent planting of 100 grafted cocoa seedlings on a commercial farm in Nine Turns, Clarendon.

This initiative is part of a broader programme to restore Jamaica’s cocoa productivity and strengthen farmer resilience against disease and low yields following the passage of Hurricane Melissa last October.

“This planting in Nine Turns is more than an agricultural exercise — it represents our dedication to long-term viability in the cocoa sector. By increasing access to clean planting material, we are empowering farmers to achieve higher yields and greater resilience against disease.

“This is a significant step forward in our mandate to grow commodity sectors that support rural livelihoods and national export potential,” said Wayne Hunter, acting director general at JACRA.

Hunter said these grafted seedlings were specifically selected to improve resistance to key production challenges, such as frosty pod rot — a disease that has severely impacted local cocoa output over past decades.

In the meantime, Chevonne Aschute, acting senior director for cocoa and coconut at JACRA, said grafted seedlings are at the heart of the modernisation of cocoa production.

“These plants have been selected for stronger performance and adaptability, which translates into more consistent farm-level productivity. Our work here in Clarendon, and across other cocoa-producing parishes, reflects JACRA’s strategy of combining science-based solutions with farmer empowerment,” said Aschute.

Cocoa, the source of the beans used in chocolate and other products, is a globally significant tropical crop cultivated for its economic value and unique flavour profile.

World cocoa production exceeds 5.8 million tonnes annually, with major producers located in West Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

With renewed focus on the distribution of clean planting material and effective agronomic practices, JACRA is pushing to build on Jamaica’s reputation for quality, fine-flavoured cocoa.

JACRA’s ongoing sector efforts also include farmer training, technical support, and collaboration with the other agencies of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, to enhance disease management and productivity.

With sustained investment and scaling of improved technologies, JACRA expects to see measurable improvements in farm performance and sector output in upcoming crop cycles.