2021 Partner Report: ÖKO Caribe

ÖKO Caribe
Dominican Republic

Over the last year, Gualberto Acebey and Adriano Rodríguez Cruz, who share the responsibility of running operations at ÖKO Caribe, have continued to invest in their operation by adding substantial fermentation and drying capacity. After 2020’s travel bans, it was exciting to visit and see these improvements in person, along with Nelson Britus, Taza’s Plant Manager. 

By making these investments, Adriano and Gualberto are also investing in their local farming community by building stronger quality management and premium market connections. This will have the lasting and powerful effect of delivering higher premiums for their already excellent quality cocoa. We are deeply grateful for the strong partnership we have built with them, and look forward to many more years.

-- Alex Whitmore, Taza CEO 

Visiting ÖKO Caribe

Our most recent in-person visit to ÖKO Caribe was in June 2021.

*Price based on FOB terms and equal to the negotiated fixed price or to the negotiated premium plus the world market price on the day the contract is closed

**Price the individual farmer receives for their cacao prior to its further processing, packing and export. Taza's 2016 Transparency Report, "Let's Talk Price" provides an in-depth exploration of the topic

*** Wages are paid in local currency and are translated into USD, but are not adjusted for purchasing power or a country's cost of living. Where a range is given, wages vary based on type of work and skill and experience level. In all cases, our Partners pay employees at or above their country's minimum wage