Featured News

CAA Appoints New Chairperson

Singapore, 14 October 2025 – The Cocoa Association of Asia (CAA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Brandon Tay as Chairman. Mr Tay assumes the position with a profound sense of honour and responsibility, expressing his deep gratitude for the trust and confidence shown by the Association’s members.

Brandon Tay is a distinguished veteran and prominent leader within the global cocoa sector, currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of Guan Chong Berhad (GCB Cocoa). Widely regarded for his expertise and industry insight, Mr. Tay has overseen GCB’s evolution into Asia’s largest cocoa processor and the world’s fourth-largest cocoa trader.

Mr Tay commented, “It is with a profound sense of honour and responsibility that I accept the role of Chairman of the CAA. I am deeply humbled by your nomination and the trust you have placed in me. Thank you for this incredible opportunity to serve our cocoa community.”

He extended his sincere appreciation to immediate Past Chairman, Mr Elie Fouché (Barry Callebaut). Under Mr Fouché’s steadfast leadership, and with the dedicated support of the team including Michelle Cui (Ecom Agroindustrial Corporation), Mr Heong Yong Kong (Mars Wrigley), and Darren Stetzel (StoneX), the Association has been steered with vision and commitment. Mr Tay affirms his intention to build upon this strong foundation with the existing committee members.

A special note of thanks was given to the board for their encouragement and persuasion, as their belief in Mr Tay’s ability to take on this role was a significant factor in his decision. Mr Tay also emphasised, “Our operations would not run seamlessly without the exceptional work of our Secretary-General, Ms Shirley Choo. Her diligence and professionalism are invaluable to us all, and I look forward to our continued collaboration.”

The Cocoa Association of Asia and its members expresses their appreciation to Mr Elie Fouché, who has stepped down as Chairman following his move back to Europe to take up a new role. His outstanding leadership, vision, and commitment have significantly strengthened the CAA’s foundation and community.

Looking ahead, Mr Tay outlined four key focus areas for his tenure:

• Strengthening the Regional Cocoa Supply Chain: Continuing execution and completion of pending projects initiated by previous leadership, including strengthening the region's cocoa supply chain to address a declining Asian crop, ensuring compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and promoting long-term sustainability.

• Ensuring the successful execution of the 2026 CAA International Cocoa Conference, scheduled for 2–3 September 2026 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore: Continuing to provide an outstanding opportunity for industry connection and celebration. In 2024, the conference attracted over 600 participants from more than 40 countries—solidifying its position as Asia Pacific’s leading forum for industry dialogue and collaboration. The 2026 edition will build on this momentum, further strengthening its reputation as the region’s premier platform for global cocoa and chocolate stakeholders.

• Engaging Members on the Association’s Future Direction: Actively engaging with members to align on the Association’s future direction, drawing on CAA’s rich 20-year history to collectively refocus on shared needs.

• Proactively Responding to Industry Developments: Monitoring the dynamic cocoa market to ensure timely and effective responses to emerging challenges.

  
  

  “I am eager to work with all of you to champion the growth and success of our industry,” Mr Tay concluded.

About the Cocoa Association of Asia (CAA)

Established in 2003, the Cocoa Association of Asia (CAA) is a leading trade organisation representing the major companies involved in cocoa trading, processing, and manufacturing across the region. Dedicated to promoting sustainable growth and best practices within the Asian cocoa and chocolate sector, the CAA serves as a strategic platform for collaboration, dialogue, and advocacy. Through its biennial international conference, sustainability initiatives, and partnerships with global organisations, the CAA advances a global agenda focused on responsible trade, innovation, farmer empowerment, and resilient, traceable cocoa supply chains.

Media Contact:

Shirley Choo, Secretary-General & Chief Operating Officer

Cocoa Association of Asia

Email: shirley.choo@cocoaasia.org

Website: www.cocoaasia.org