Award-Winning Belgian Chocolatier Expands to Japan
Centho, a prominent chocolatier from Flanders, has gained recognition as Geert Decoster was named Chocolatier of the Year 2025 for Flanders by the Gault&Millau guide. The award highlights the expertly balanced flavors of his ganache-filled pralines. Decoster’s creations are praised for emphasizing the chocolate’s origin without overshadowing its natural qualities.
Centho’s domestic acclaim is paralleled by its international success. After over a decade of exporting to Japan, Centho launched its first year-round boutique in Tokyo in September 2024. The shop quickly gained popularity, resulting in a rapid increase in shipments to meet demand.
Strict Compliance with Japanese Standards
Establishing a permanent presence in Japan poses challenges due to strict hygiene and quality regulations for imported foods. Centho’s production in Belgium undergoes annual inspections by a Japanese team. “It’s a process of constant refinement,” Decoster stated, “but our product has become stronger because of it.” This Tokyo venture has the backing of a leading Japanese food company, with which Centho has collaborated for over ten years, exporting nearly ten tonnes of chocolate annually.
Despite its global operations, Centho remains anchored in its local roots. Founded in 2002 in Tervuren, the chocolatier has established itself as a top Belgian chocolate maker known for innovation. Its signature creation, the ‘Salin’ caramel praline—dipped in fine chocolate and adorned with sea salt—has garnered gold at the World Chocolate Awards and is favored in prestigious establishments such as The Ritz in London.
In conclusion, Centho’s expanding presence in the Japanese market signifies growing global recognition of Belgian chocolates, emphasizing quality and distinct flavors.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA
