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After the Portuguese introduced cacao to Principe, this small West African island became the gateway of cacao to the mainland. From Principe, cacao trees were introduced to its sister island of São Tomé and later brought to Ghana. The bittersweet history of cacao on both islands was reflected in the neglect of plantations and crops for many decades. Nowadays, it has regained strength and has become an important source of income for many smallholder farmers who are proud of their contribution to the country's production.
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With an annual cacao harvest averaging around 100-150 tons per year, Jamaica currently exports about 90% of its annual production. Until recently, the beans underwent a "polishing" process that gave them a unique outward appearance. This process is no longer used on the beans but the richness and depth of flavours remains.