CMA Chocolate Manufacturer Association

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In September 2001, a significant agreement was established in the chocolate and cocoa industry, known as the “Harkin Engel Protocol.” This accord was developed with the collaboration of Senator Tom Harkin and Representative Eliot Engel, aiming to eradicate the most egregious forms of child labour in cocoa production across all cocoa-growing regions. 

The protocol outlined a comprehensive six-point plan and a time-bound process to effectively eliminate the use of exploitative child labor in the cocoa industry. This initiative marked a historic moment as it held the entire industry, including companies from the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom, accountable for addressing child labour issues in their supply chains. In 2010, a Framework of Action was established to support the implementation of the Harkin-Engel Protocol, further emphasising the commitment to combating child labor in cocoa production.