Jonas Rosales joins London Chocolate Forum 2026 to explore Nicaragua’s emergence as one of the world’s most exciting fine-flavour cocoa origins and what its development means for the future of sustainable cocoa sourcing.
London Chocolate Forum 2026 is delighted to announce that Jonas Rosales, Cocoa Sourcing and Sustainability at Islands Chocolate and European Partnerships Lead for Semilla Escuela de Cacao in Nicaragua, will present a keynote titled “Insights on Central American Cacao and Chocolate with a Focus on Nicaragua.”
As demand for traceable, high-quality cocoa continues to grow, understanding emerging origins has never been more important. In this session, Jonas will take delegates beyond the headlines to explore why Nicaragua is increasingly being recognised as one of fine-flavour cocoa’s most promising producing countries.
Drawing on three years of direct sourcing relationships with cooperatives and cocoa producers across Nicaragua, Jonas will share first-hand insights into the country’s cocoa sector, from its rich agricultural heritage to the people and communities driving its continued development. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how farming practices, post-harvest processing and sustainability initiatives are helping to position Nicaragua as an increasingly important player within the global fine-flavour cocoa market.
Although countries such as Ecuador, Peru and Madagascar are well established among specialty chocolate makers, Central America continues to attract growing attention for its distinctive flavour profiles and commitment to quality. According to the International Cocoa Organization, demand for fine or flavour cocoa has continued to rise as consumers seek premium chocolate with clear provenance, while manufacturers increasingly value direct relationships and transparent supply chains that support long-term sustainability.
Jonas will also discuss the role of collaboration between producers, cooperatives, educators and international partners in building resilient cocoa communities. Through his work with Semilla Escuela de Cacao, he has supported initiatives that strengthen technical knowledge, improve quality and create opportunities for cocoa-growing families, demonstrating how investment in education and local expertise can deliver lasting benefits throughout the supply chain.
“One of the great strengths of London Chocolate Forum is bringing together voices from every part of the cocoa value chain, and Jonas offers a unique perspective from working directly with producers on the ground. As interest in fine-flavour cocoa and transparent sourcing continues to grow, his insights into Nicaragua’s rapidly developing cocoa sector will give delegates a valuable understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing one of the industry’s most exciting emerging origins,” commented Kiran Grewal, Editor, Kennedy’s Confection and Organiser, London Chocolate Forum 2026.
The session will conclude by examining the trends and developments that industry professionals should be watching as Nicaragua’s cocoa sector continues to develop, offering valuable perspectives for chocolate makers, buyers, traders and anyone interested in the future of fine-flavour cocoa.
