Cargill is launching its first chocolate manufacturing operation in Asia in response to rising consumer demand for chocolate products.

The company is therefore partnering with a local manufacturer in western India to launch its first chocolate manufacturing operation in Asia.

The facility is expected to begin operating mid-2021 and will initially produce 10,000 tons of chocolate compounds.

“Asia is a key growth market for Cargill. Opening a chocolate manufacturing operation in India allows us to increase our regional footprint and capabilities in Asia to better support the needs of our local Indian customers as well as multi-national customers in the region,” said Francesca Kleemans, managing director Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate Asia-Pacific.

“It also demonstrates our commitment to supporting the local economy with the addition of 100 new manufacturing jobs.”

She added: “Combining local insights from our experience and long term presence as a food ingredient supplier in India with our global cocoa and chocolate expertise, we aim to become the leading supplier and trusted partner for our bakery, ice cream and confectionary customers in Asia, who will use our chocolate compounds, chips and paste to create products that will delight local palates.”