What is CACAO?
Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) is a tropical tree native to the Amazon basin, whose seeds are the raw material for chocolate and one of the most complex foods known, with more than 600 aromatic compounds. Scientifically, cacao is classified into three main groups: Forastero, Criollo, and Trinitario, each with distinct genetic, sensory, and agronomic traits. Ecuador is recognized worldwide for its unique fine-aroma cacao, particularly the variety known as Cacao Arriba, celebrated for its floral and fruity notes.
+5,000 Years of Cacao Legacy
In 2007, archaeological studies in Palanda, Zamora Chinchipe (Ecuador), revealed vestiges of cacao use dating back more than 5,000 years, the oldest evidence in the world. This discovery confirms Ecuador as the birthplace of cacao, offering humanity not only a technological legacy of the first fermentation and consumption processes, but also a spiritual connection with the ancestral peoples who revered it as a sacred fruit. Experiencing Ecuadorian cacao today means returning to its true origin—where its aroma, flavor, and richness first awakened the senses and began an organoleptic journey that continues to inspire the world. An ancient settlement inhabited by the Mayo-Chinchipe culture long before the arrival of Europeans in the Americas; the oldest archaeological remains date back at least 5,450 years. Researchers have found traces of cacao in artifacts and ceramic fragments dating from 5,300 to 2,100 years ago, ranging from ceremonial jars to everyday vessels. Evidence shows that the Mayo-Chinchipe culture was already cultivating cacao 5,300 years ago, that it did so continuously for more than 3,000 years, and that they likely consumed it as a drink, food, and stimulant, as well as for ceremonial and medicinal purposes (Clarín, 2020).
The main companies in Ecuador we work with ethical production
We work in close collaboration with leading companies in the cacao and chocolate sector, renowned for their long-standing trajectory, prestige, and the achievement of both national and international awards that highlight the excellence and competitiveness of their products. These companies stand out for maintaining fair treatment with producers and partners, applying ethical and responsible policies that strengthen the entire value chain. In addition, they hold quality and safety certifications such as BPM, HACCP, European Union Organic Certification and FDA, which ensure compliance with international standards and allow exports worldwide with complete confidence. Their commitment is also reflected in the planning of adequate production times, flexibility in supply, and their openness to welcome visits to their facilities, which conveys trust and transparency to clients and strategic partners.
Producers responsible for the miracle
We work hand in hand with farmers’ organizations and associations across 10 provinces of Ecuador, bringing together more than 1,500 producers who cultivate over 6,000 hectares of fine-flavor Nacional cacao. These farmers receive fair treatment and adequate prices for their work, while also participating in awareness programs and community support initiatives promoted by the factories that process the product. In this way, we ensure not only the quality of the cacao but also the well-being and development of the communities dedicated to its cultivation.
Certifications we work with International Reach
BPM / GMP certification
The BPM / GMP certification guarantees that cacao paste and chocolate production follow strict good manufacturing practices, with hygienic facilities, proper sanitation, safe raw material handling, and trained staff. By minimizing contamination risks, it ensures a high-quality, reliable, and safe product for consumers.
FDA approval
The FDA approval certifies that products meet the strict food safety regulations of the United States. This authorization supports the export of cacao paste and chocolate to the North American market, ensuring that production processes, labeling, and safety standards comply with international requirements.
HACCP certification
The HACCP certification ensures that cacao and chocolate production is safeguarded through the continuous identification, evaluation, and control of physical, chemical, biological, and environmental hazards. This internationally recognized system provides preventive monitoring, protecting consumers and guaranteeing maximum safety, while reinforcing confidence in global markets.
≥ 500 Kg of production
European Organic Certificate / USDA Organic
The Organic Certificate guarantees that cacao and its derivatives are produced under organic farming standards, free from synthetic agrochemicals, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. This seal opens the doors to the most demanding European and American markets, highly valued by consumers seeking sustainable, healthy, and transparent-origin products, while preserving the authenticity of Nacional cacao.
For < 500 Kg It is necessary that you be an organically certified distributor.
Production lines
We offer a flexible production capacity ranging from small batches of 90 kg to industrial volumes of over 20 tons per month. This versatility allows us to serve both exclusive, artisanal projects and large-scale export demands. Additionally, we provide white-label solutions, enabling our partners to market premium products under their own brands. At every scale, we ensure the finest Ecuadorian fine aroma cacao, processed under the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and social responsibility
Cacao liquor/cacao paste
For ritual purposes
Our line of cacao liquor for ritual purposes is crafted with 100% Ecuadorian cacao, sourced from native varieties (Cacao Arriba) that keep their ancestral traditions alive. This ceremonial cacao preserves the original purity of the bean, free from additives, and is prepared with deep respect for the land and the spiritual practices surrounding it. It is a product intended for ceremonies, rituals, and sacred spaces, where cacao becomes a medium of connection with the natural, the human, and the transcendent, honoring both the cultural legacy and the spiritual value of the peoples who cultivate it.
It can be produced in blocks, bars, drops and coins
Chocolate bars
The chocolate bar line stands out for its diversity of flavors and creations, crafted with fine aroma Ecuadorian cacao and combinations that highlight both tradition and innovation. From pure 100% cacao options to varieties with panela, coconut sugar, or sugar-free alternatives, each bar offers unique profiles ranging from intense and fruity notes to citrus, floral, or spiced nuances. In addition, native ingredients and superfoods such as amaranth, chocho, mango, lemon, golden berry, and passion fruit bring freshness, nutrition, and authenticity.
Chocolate coatings and cacao liquor for production
The couverture chocolate line is designed to inspire creativity and elevate any preparation, offering a wide range of intensities from pure 100% cacao to balanced semi-sweet varieties. Crafted with fine aroma Ecuadorian cacao, these couvertures highlight complex notes such as fruits, nuts, caramel, spices, or subtle floral tones, providing professionals with versatile options for pastries, confectionery, desserts, and beverages. Available in dark, milk, white, organic, and sugar-free versions, each couverture ensures excellent fluidity, shine, and texture, adapting to both artisanal and industrial needs.It can be produced in blocks, bars, drops and coinsMore information about the production lines
About logistics and export
We have been working with the company Latinternacional for over 15 years. However, we can also work with any logistics company you trust, such as Kuehne+Nagel, ILC, DHL, FedEx, UPS, Maersk, among others. The prices are transparent, and we do not add any additional surcharges.
- Freight (air – sea) + cold chain
- Fuel per kilo
- AWB issuance
- Transfer
- Cargo handling
- Anti-narcotics inspection
- Customs clearance
- All-risk insurance policy
Remember: Export prices vary depending on the transport company, the season, the destination, and the dimensions and weights of the packaging. We will always provide you with a personalized quotation.
Our doors are open for you
We understand your concern for the safety and integrity of the product, from its harvest, through production, and up to its shipment to your destination country. That is why we invite you to be part of the production an export process.
- You can visit the farms where cacao is harvested and fermented.
- You can enter the factory and witness the production of the cacao being used for your product, as well as access the sensory laboratories, where you can taste the preliminary version of the product and make adjustments if you wish.
- You can also see how the logistics chain takes your product to the port (by air or sea).
The entire process is transparent and efficient. We can plan your visit together with the production and export process.