Taiwan Cacao Discovery 2026
Behind every brand, cacao farmer, and co-op is a compelling story of passion, courage, grit, and resilience. During this trip in Taiwan, we met farmers, chocolate makers, and passionate individuals who are making things happen in their own unique ways. Each one shines differently, and moves us deeply.
- TICCA (Taiwan Cacao and Chocolate Industry Association)
Founded in 2021 as a non-profit organization, TICCA has been bringing together Taiwan's cacao and chocolate community through education and collaboration. From cacao bean quality and flavour evaluation to chocolate making and tasting, TICCA provides valuable training opportunities that help members strengthen their skills. More recently, they have invited professionals from ICCR (Institute for Cacao and Chocolate Research) and IICCT (International Institute of Chocolate and Cacao Tasting) to Taiwan, creating learning experiences and sharing knowledge with the community. We are grateful for learning from Dr. Carla D. Martin and José López Ganem at the ICCR x TICCA International Training in May.
- Meya Farm
Possibly the only fish pond where a school of koi happily swims in the middle of a cacao farm as part of an aquaponic system!
What amazed us most was their full-sun approach to growing cacao, allowing naturn to select the strongest tree that thrive in the environment. Many thanks to Mr. Chiu, Mr. Huang and Tony Huang for the rare opportunity to learn firsthand about cacao harvesting, fermentation, and drying. Every step revealed just how much care and dedication go into producing quality cacao.
- Sweet Chocolate Factory
What began as a deep act of love for his mother became a remarkable cacao journey. In 2014, Mr. Lin started growing cacao and making chocolate with minimal ingredients, hoping to improve his mother's heart condition.
His care extends beyond chocolate and into the land itself. Through his natural farming approach, beautiful White-rumped Shamas frequently visit the farm in pairs and often accompany the farmers as they work - a quiet reminder of the harmony he has cultivated with nature.
Mr. Yeh may be one of the most dedicated, detail-oriented, and passionate bean-to-bar chocolate makers we have ever met.
Founded in 2018, Love Brown Cacao has received numerous international chocolate awards. Yet what moved us most was not just the accolades, but the stories behind each chocolate bar and Mr. Yeh's endless curiosity in exploring the possibilities of cacao.
Though each journey is different, the moment and conversations we shared revealed something that binds us all: a sense of warmth, generosity, and community.
We left Taiwan with knowledge, friendships, and gratitude. Thank you to everyone who welcomed us, shared their stories, and helped us better understand the people and passion behind Taiwan cacao.
Olivia