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Direct trade is the most transparent model in the chocolate industry. It bypasses certification bodies and creates a direct relationship between the chocolate maker and the cocoa farmer. The results are often better for farmers quality and transparency than traditional fair trade chocolate certification.

In a direct trade relationship the chocolate maker visits the farm negotiates the price directly and often pays a significant premium chocolate pricing or even fair trade prices. The maker can verify cocoa farming practices first hand and the farmer receives feedback about bean quality that helps them improve production. The bean to bar vs mass produced chocolate distinction is relevant because direct trade is primarily practiced by small to medium bean to bar makers who can maintain these personal relationships.

Direct trade is not a formal certification. There is no third party auditor. The transparency depends on the maker willingness to share information about their sourcing. Many directly traded chocolates include details about the farm and the price paid on the wrapper. Look for makers who publish this information.

The premium paid in direct trade relationships varies but is typically 20% to 100% above the commodity price. This translates to significantly better incomes for farmers. When you want to buy directly traded chocolate that supports farmers and quality equally explore the selection at BuyChocolate.org.