Case study:
AMCO, Mexico
Mexico has experienced an approximate 50% reduction in the production of cocoa since the disease moniliasis (frosty pod rot) first struck cocoa farms in 2005. Of the two cocoa-growing regions in Mexico, Chiapas has encountered significant obstacles in overcoming the effects of the disease.
Together with local and international agricultural research institutes, AMCO is bringing cocoa varieties, tolerant to the Moniliasis disease, to Mexico as part of a project designed to revive cocoa production in Chiapas over the next decade.
The focus of the partnership is aimed at the renovation of farmland and the training of 650 producers in the Soconusco region of Chiapas. The project will include the planting of a clone garden to produce material for the nursery that will serve the producers involved. Farmers will receie training in Good Agricultural Practices as well as renovation techniques.
In 2011, farmers were trained and UTZ-certified. The project has estimates it will increase yield among farmers and produce a 200% increase in farmer income, reaching an estimated 2,600 beneficiaries. AMCO is working with local and international development organizations in project implementation.