Cocoa prices at all-time high as production in West Africa declines

BREAKING NEWSFebruary 27, 2024 at 11:39 AM UTC

TLDR

Cocoa prices soar, reaching historic high of $9,010.59 per ton due to unfavorable weather conditions and smuggling activities
Major cocoa-producing countries like Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana experiencing reduced crop yields
Traders compete for dwindling supplies, driving prices even higher amid strong seasonal winds and insufficient rainfall

Chocolate enthusiasts worldwide may need to prepare for a potential shortage of their favorite sweet treat as cocoa prices soar to unprecedented levels, with economists predicting no relief in sight through 2024. An EU regulation meant to stop deforestation threatens to push prices even higher.

Since the start of last year, cocoa prices have more than doubled, reaching a historic high of $9,010.59 per ton on the New York commodities market in the second week of February. Several factors are contributing to this surge in prices, including unfavorable weather conditions, smuggling activities, and the prevalence of swollen shoot disease.

These issues have led to reduced crop yields in major cocoa-producing countries such as Côte d'Ivoire, responsible for nearly 40% of the world's cocoa bean production, and Ghana, which produces 20%. In addition, strong seasonal winds and insufficient rainfall have exacerbated the situation, prompting traders to compete for dwindling supplies and driving prices even higher.

Key Takeaways

The rising costs of primary ingredients, particularly cocoa, are causing concern among chocolate manufacturers, who are preparing for a potential slowdown in demand. According to a report by ingredients supplier Henley Bridge, cocoa prices are expected to increase by 15-20% in the first half of 2024, with projections indicating continued price surges for the remainder of the year. This sharp rise in pricing has already had widespread implications for the chocolate industry, prompting manufacturers to adjust their operations to cope with the escalating costs. However, the effects of cocoa scarcity extend beyond the chocolate sector. Products reliant on cocoa as an ingredient, such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, may also face price hikes or disruptions in the supply chain. Furthermore, emerging economies with significant demand for chocolate products may encounter challenges in meeting customer demands due to the limited availability of cocoa. As a result, industries and markets that rely on cocoa-based products may need to adapt to higher prices and potential supply constraints in the coming months.

Chocolate

Cocoa Prices

Ghana

Ivory Coast

Commodities

West Africa