The Fine Chocolate Industry Association announces the appointment of Emily Meza Wilson, CEO and Supply Chain Director of Mindo Chocolate Makers, to its Board of Directors

The Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA) strengthened global partnerships at Chocoa 2026 in Amsterdam, connecting with chocolate makers, cacao producers, educators, and industry leaders worldwide. Through tastings, educational sessions, and collaborative meetings, FCIA expanded international engagement, promoted member companies, and reinforced its role as a global hub supporting innovation, transparency, and community across the fine chocolate industry.

The first annual Vermont Chocolate Festival will take place March 14–15, 2026, in downtown Middlebury, Vermont, bringing together chocolatiers, bean-to-bar makers, and chocolate lovers for tastings, demonstrations, educational presentations, and hands-on experiences. Hosted by Adagio Chocolates, the festival celebrates craftsmanship, thoughtful sourcing, and community while connecting makers and consumers through the shared appreciation of fine chocolate.

Award-Winning, Ethically Sourced Chocolatier Expands with Second Location

Fruition Chocolate Works has expanded with a second retail location at Eastdale Village Town Center in Poughkeepsie, NY, bringing its award-winning, ethically sourced chocolate across the Hudson River. The new shop offers an immersive tasting experience, craft chocolates from around the world, and an espresso and hot chocolate bar, building on the success of its flagship Shokan location.

New leadership, expanded programming, strengthened operations, and deeper member engagement position FCIA for an energized 2026

The Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA) closes 2025 with renewed momentum marked by leadership transition, expanded events and education, stronger operations, and deeper member engagement. With modernized systems, financial stability, and a reenergized board and staff, FCIA enters 2026 well positioned to support and connect fine chocolate professionals worldwide.

The Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA) is pleased that tariffs on cocoa have been removed, as of November 13, 2025.

The Fine Chocolate Industry Association announces the removal of U.S. tariffs on cocoa, a significant win for chocolate makers facing record-high cocoa prices. FCIA, in collaboration with the National Confectioners Association and industry advocates, supported efforts to rescind these tariffs. The press release outlines the policy change, its impact on the industry, and remaining concerns about tariffs on Brazilian cocoa.

Expert Urges Context, Not Alarm, on Heavy Metal Reports

FCIA addresses heavy metal reports, emphasizing moderation, science-based context, and chocolate’s safety when enjoyed responsibly.

Robust trade of finished chocolate products including craft chocolate bars, bean-to-bar chocolate bars, bon bon and truffle collections, and baked goods is important to the Fine Chocolate Industry.

Catskills-based Fruition Chocolate Works, a small-batch chocolate company helmed by husband and wife team, renowned chocolate-maker Bryan Graham and Dahlia Graham, is among the first to bring Smithsonian’s new Bird Friendly Cacao seal to market on their new Zorzal Eco Reserve 73% Dark Chocolate.