Barry Callebaut Group and A.P. Moller – Maersk have officially opened a Built-To-Suit cocoa bean warehouse in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia, marking a major logistics milestone in the Asia Pacific cocoa supply chain.
Located in Johor’s industrial hub, the new facility spans more than 600,000 square feet and can hold nearly 40,000 metric tons of cocoa beans. Built under a decade-long partnership signed in 2023, the warehouse is designed to strengthen supply chain control, improve efficiency, and support Barry Callebaut’s growing customer base across Asia.
Integrated logistics for cocoa supply chains
The warehouse is the first multi-storey ramp-up facility in Pasir Gudang dedicated to cocoa bean storage. It integrates directly with Maersk’s Warehouse Management System, providing real-time tracking, optimized workflows, and enhanced visibility across the supply chain. Features such as LED lighting and natural ventilation reduce energy consumption, aligning with regional sustainability goals.
The location is strategic—less than one kilometer from Barry Callebaut’s cocoa processing factory and close to the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, one of Malaysia’s busiest maritime gateways. This proximity allows faster handling of imported beans sourced from Africa, Latin America, and Asia before distribution across regional and global markets.
Dr. Ramle Hj Kasin, Director General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board, said the new facility aligns with Malaysia’s national agenda:
“This new facility is aligned with the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, and the Malaysian Cocoa Board national agenda, to strengthen the Agri-commodity sector in this region. It is to sustain our momentum, boosting competitiveness, and reinforcing Malaysia’s stature on the global cocoa map.”
Strengthening control and speed
Cocoa is a critical commodity with supply chains that span continents, from West Africa’s producing countries to Asia’s processing hubs. Controlling quality, ensuring timely deliveries, and reducing risks have become increasingly important amid market volatility and shifting trade dynamics.
Alain Freymond, President, Global Cocoa at Barry Callebaut, emphasized the importance of the warehouse:
“This facility is a game-changer for our supply chain in Asia Pacific. In today’s environment, where managing the cocoa value chain has become more critical than ever, it gives us greater control over bean quality and enhances our ability to serve customers across the region with speed and precision. Our partnership with Maersk continues to grow, and this warehouse reflects our shared commitment to building a resilient and future-ready logistics network.”
End-to-end logistics solutions
Since 2022, Maersk has supported Barry Callebaut with integrated logistics services, moving cocoa beans from growing regions to processing sites in Asia Pacific. In Malaysia, the partnership covers imports via the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, followed by trucking and rail services between the port, the new warehouse, and Barry Callebaut’s processing plant.
Ditlev Blicher, President Asia Pacific at Maersk, noted that the facility strengthens visibility and reliability:
“We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of Barry Callebaut’s new warehouse in Malaysia. Our end-to-end logistics solutions are designed to empower Barry Callebaut with greater supply chain visibility, efficiency, and control—helping them respond faster to market needs and deliver outstanding service to their customers. We look forward to growing together and supporting their continued success with innovative, reliable logistics.”
A milestone for cocoa and logistics in Asia Pacific
The opening ceremony gathered senior leaders from both companies, Malaysian government representatives, and local stakeholders. Beyond its scale, the facility underscores the importance of Malaysia as a logistics hub for agricultural commodities in Asia Pacific and highlights the role of integrated supply chain partnerships in supporting growth, innovation, and sustainability in the region.
