FORUM NACHHALTIGER KAKAO e.V.

Panel Discussion // GISCO and SWISSCO at ISM: Future-proofing chocolate: How to build resilient cocoa supply chains
2026-02-03 11:00 - 12:00 (Europe/Berlin) | Koelnmesse, Köln
Join the German Initiative on Sustainable Cocoa (GISCO) and the Swiss Platform for Sustainable Cocoa (SWISSCO) at the ISM 2026 Expert Stage on February 3rd, 11:00–12:00 in Cologne, for a panel discussion on “Future-proofing chocolate: How to build resilient cocoa supply chains”. The session will gather leading stakeholders from the chocolate industry to exchange on actions and investments are needed to ensure a robust supply chain in which farmers earn a living.

About the panel
The global cocoa sector continues to face mounting challenges: volatile markets, climate shocks, ageing farmers, sustainability requirements, and heightened expectations from consumers and regulators. In the current situation, securing a reliable and long-term supply of cocoa is increasingly critical for the cocoa industry. This, however, depends on whether cocoa farmers can earn a living and see a future in cocoa production.
Our expert-level panel brings together perspectives from a local producer, industry, and certification looking into how we can collectively contribute to build more resilient supply chains. The discussion will unpack the economic, social, and environmental enablers that determine long-term productivity and profitability of cocoa farming.
Our speakers

Monica Müller, Chocolat Bernrain AG
Adele Judith Gwet, Chambers Federation & Project Origins
Stephan Jermendy, ALDI SÜD HOLDING
Emmanuel Sarpong, Asunafo Cooperative & Fairtrade International Ghana Network
Claudia Kühne, Barry Callebaut Group

Expert Stage
This panel will take place at the Expert Stage – a programme collaboratively put together by the ISM and ProSweets Cologne, reflecting the entire industrial value chain of the confectionary and snack industry.
Find the full Expert Stage programme here.

Location update:
Expert Stage, Boulevard Central

Language
The Panel will be held in English

Organiser
German Initiative on Sustainable Cocoa (GISCO) and the Swiss Platform for Sustainable Cocoa (SWISSCO)

Further Information
The International Confectionary Fair (ISM) in Cologne is the world’s leading trade fair for sweets and snacks. You can find further information on the ISM website.
