Governor Arinal Djunaidi of Lampung encourages local entrepreneurs to develop the local chocolate industry by leveraging the abundant cocoa commodity in the region. Despite being the second-largest cocoa-producing region in the country, Lampung lacks chocolate factories to support the local chocolate industry. Governor Arinal highlighted the example of Belgium, which excels in chocolate production despite not having cocoa plantations. He urges local entrepreneurs to capitalize on Lampung's significant cocoa potential to develop the local chocolate industry.Governor Arinal expressed confidence in building chocolate factories in Lampung through collaboration with all stakeholders. Processed chocolate bars fetch higher prices than raw cocoa, presenting an economic opportunity for the region. While there is a small-scale chocolate processing industry managed by the Regional-Owned Enterprises (BUMD) of Pesawaran Regency, it faces challenges such as marketing difficulties. Governor Arinal envisions direct processing of cocoa during harvest, facilitating production in the region and easing distribution logistics.Establishing chocolate processing units in Lampung could improve cocoa farmers' earnings, as processed cocoa commands a higher price than raw cocoa. This initiative could double farmers' income, from IDR 20,000 per kilogram for raw cocoa to IDR 60,000 per kilogram for processed cocoa. Moreover, it could indirectly create job opportunities through local chocolate processing factories. Governor Arinal hopes that effective cocoa management in Lampung will foster the growth of the local chocolate industry, enabling its products to enter modern markets and reach various regions.

Source: https://www.antaranews.com/berita/4145580/gubernur-lampung-ajak-pengusaha-kembangkan-industri-cokelat-lokal