Cocoa Shortage Will Squeeze Chocolate Makers in 2025

Global cocoa shortage disrupts chocolate production, driven by climate change, crop diseases, and supply chain challenges. Rising prices and reduced supply impact consumers and the confectionery industry. Explore the causes, effects, and future outlook of the crisis.

Context: Insufficient rainfall in most cocoa-growing regions of Ivory Coast may delay the start of the mid-crop season from April to September, potentially causing a cocoa bean shortage.

About Cocoa

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) is a tropical tree whose seeds (cocoa beans) are used to produce chocolate, cocoa butter, and cocoa powder.
It is native to South America but is now widely grown in Africa, Asia, and Central America.

Climate Requirement

It requires a hot and humid climate.
Temperature: 21°C to 32°C (ideal is around 25°C)
Rainfall: 1,500–2,500 mm per year, well-distributed
Soil Type: Deep, well-drained, and rich in organic matter

Shade and Wind Protection

Cocoa trees are shade-loving and require partial shade to prevent excessive transpiration.
Tall trees like banana and coconut are often planted alongside cocoa for shade.

Top Producers of Cocoa

Top Producers Worldwide: (1) Côte d’Ivoire (2) Ghana (3) Indonesia
Top Producers India: (1) Kerala (2) Karnataka (3) Tamil Nadu
- Kerala and Karnataka are the top producers, together accounting for more than 60% of India’s cocoa production.

UPSC PYQ

Q. Which of the following countries are well known as the two largest cocoa producers in the world? (2024)

(1) Algeria and Morocco

(2) Botswana and Namibia

(3) Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana

(4) Madagascar and Mozambique

Answer: C