Cocoa gains back toward record high as global supply woes persist

BREAKING NEWSApril 10, 2024 at 3:53 PM UTC

TLDR

Cocoa prices in New York surge, nearing record highs amidst global shortages and poor harvests in West Africa.
Chocolate manufacturers facing challenges and increased costs due to bean scarcity, with concerns about price hikes.
Barry Callebaut AG reassures stakeholders of effective crisis management and currently adequate supply levels.

Cocoa prices in New York surged on Wednesday, nearing record highs, amid ongoing concerns over global shortages. Futures rose by as much as 1.6%, marking a fourth consecutive increase. The rally comes amidst a year of significant price spikes, with recent levels surpassing $10,000 a ton.

Poor harvests in West Africa have contributed to an annual deficit, intensifying worries about chocolate price hikes. The scarcity is posing challenges for chocolate manufacturers, who are facing difficulties and increased costs in sourcing beans.

Godiva's parent company has indicated plans to raise prices in response to soaring costs. However, Barry Callebaut AG, a major supplier to leading chocolate brands, reassured stakeholders, stating that it has managed to navigate the crisis effectively and remains well-supplied for the time being.

Key Takeaways

Cocoa prices have surged to record highs this year due to concerns over shrinking global supplies. Reduced production in key regions like the Ivory Coast and Ghana has fueled worries of shortages, leading to a doubling of cocoa prices since the year began. Declining shipments from Ivory Coast ports and revised harvest forecasts from Ghana's Cocoa Board indicate a severe supply crunch. Tightness in cocoa supplies is compounded by concerns about the West African mid-crop. As a result, global cocoa grinders are paying premiums to secure cocoa, reflecting the urgency to address supply challenges.

Ivory Coast

Ghana

Cocoa

Chocolate

Commodities