#112 - Keith Bearden @ Alter Eco - Cacao Price Spikes, Tariff Pressure, and Regenerative Progress

Author: Regen Brands Podcast
Published: Fri 22 Aug 2025
Episode Link: https://regenbrandspodcast.podbean.com/e/112-keith-bearden-alter-eco-cacao-price-spikes-tariff-pressure-and-regenerative-progress/

On this episode, we sit down with Keith Bearden, CEO of Alter Eco, to unpack one of the most turbulent years in chocolate’s history.

We dive into why cacao prices have more than tripled over the past two years and how a new 39% Swiss import tariff is disrupting their business in ways we have never seen before.

Keith shares how Alter Eco is helping farmers transition to dynamic agroforestry systems across Latin America, why regenerative certification doesn’t always pencil out, and what needs to happen to unify the movement so consumers truly understand regen’s value.

Episode Highlights:

🍫 Leading in eco-friendly chocolate for over 20 years

📈 Why cacao prices have skyrocketed the past two years

🌴 Helping cacao farmers transition to dynamic agroforestry systems

💵 Providing direct financial and agronomic support to farmers

🛒 Why Swiss manufacturing is now a core part of brand messaging

🚫 The 39% Swiss import tariff causing major disruption

🤷 Why regen certification doesn’t pencil out right now

🤤 Consumers buy for indulgence, then learn about impact

🗣 The imperative for more harmonized regen certification and communication

🤯 Why we’re headed towards $10 chocolate bars

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