How Two Women Turned Local Cocoa into a Global Chocolate Success Story

Two entrepreneurs defied skepticism to build a thriving chocolate brand. Now, their award-winning cocoa products are savored across continents, uplifting their community along the way.

, and Administrator

2025 November 16 . 7:08 AM

1 min read

In this image I can see chocolates in brown color and cadbury written on it.

How Two Women Turned Local Cocoa into a Global Chocolate Success Story

Two ethnic minority entrepreneurs from Lâm Đồng province, Lương Thị Duyên and Bế Thị Thu Huyền, returned to their hometown to launch Ban Cacao, a cocoa company now shipping worldwide. The company, formally established in 2023, offers a variety of chocolate products and cocoa grades, winning awards and securing a three-star provincial rating.

Lương Thị Duyên and Bế Thị Thu Huyền acquired their cocoa processing knowledge through research and visiting other provinces in Việt Nam. Initially, local farmers were hesitant to sell to Ban Cacao due to concerns about the business's stability. To gain their trust, the founders offered higher prices and opened their workshop, leading to partnerships with 15 households.

Ban Cacao, now known as Bears & Butter, produces chocolate bars in over 15 flavours, along with cocoa butter and powder. The company employs more than 20 local ethnic minority staff and has won a top prize in Lâm Đồng's 2022 'Creative Startup Ideas' contest. Their commitment to quality and community has secured them a three-star provincial rating under Việt Nam's 'One Commune, One Product' initiative.

Ban Cacao, now operating as Bears & Butter, has grown from a local cocoa company to a global exporter of premium chocolate products. With a strong focus on quality, community engagement, and innovation, the company continues to expand its reach and recognition.