Cocoa, the key ingredient in chocolate production, holds significant economic importance for countries around the world. As of 2024, several nations stand out as major contributors to global cocoa production, playing a crucial role in meeting the world’s demand for this beloved commodity. Let’s delve into the top 10 cocoa-producing countries and understand their significance in the cocoa industry.
Worldwide Cocoa Production
Worldwide cocoa production is predominantly centered in Africa, encompassing 60% of global output. Key factors influencing production include climate, soil type, and weather conditions in these regions. These factors play a crucial role in determining the success and yield of cocoa crops, highlighting the significance of Africa as the primary hub for cocoa cultivation on a global scale.
Largest Cocoa Producer in the World 2024
Côte d’Ivoire, known as Ivory Coast, stands as the largest cocoa producer globally, thanks to its favorable weather and climate conditions. With an annual cocoa production of 2.20 million tons, it commands a staggering 40.9% share of the global market. Despite its leading role, the country faces challenges such as deforestation due to extensive cocoa cultivation. Cocoa production significantly contributes to Ivory Coast’s economy, constituting 15% of its GDP and 40% of its export market. Notable cocoa manufacturing companies include Touton Negoce Cote D’ivoire, Outspan Ivoire SA, and Sucden Ci, with major customers including the USA, Malaysia, and India.
Top-10 Cocoa Producing Countries in the World 2024
Côte d’Ivoire, with the annual cocoa production of 22,30,000 tons, stands as the largest cocoa producer in the world, followed by Ghana, Indonesia, and Ecuador.
Here is the list of top-10 cocoa producing countries in the world 2024:
Top-10 Cocoa Producing Countries in the World 2024 | ||
Rank | Country | Annual Production (in tons) |
1. | Côte d’Ivoire | 22,30,000 |
2. | Ghana | 11,08,663 |
3. | Indonesia | 6,67,296 |
4. | Ecuador | 3,37,149 |
5. | Cameroon | 3,00,000 |
6. | Nigeria | 2,80,000 |
7. | Brazil | 2,73,873 |
8. | Peru | 1,71,177 |
9. | Dominican Republic | 75,900 |
10. | Columbia | 62,158 |
Largest Cocoa Producer in the World – Côte d’Ivoire
Cocoa Production: 22,30,000 tons
Côte d’Ivoire, or Ivory Coast, leads global cocoa production, generating 40.9% of the world’s cocoa output, totaling 2.20 million tons annually. Its favorable weather and climate conditions bolster cocoa cultivation. However, this high production rate has led to significant deforestation. Cocoa contributes 15% to the country’s GDP and 40% to its export market. Major cocoa manufacturing companies include Touton Negoce Cote D’ivoire, Outspan Ivoire SA, and Sucden Ci, with key customers being the USA, Malaysia, and India.
Second Largest Cocoa Producing Country in the World- Ghana
Cocoa Production: 11,08,663 tons
Ghana ranks as the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, alongside Côte d’Ivoire, in Africa’s leading cocoa-producing nations. With an annual output of nearly 1.1 million tons, Ghana contributes 20% to global cocoa production. However, this substantial production rate has led to biodiversity degradation, wildlife corridor loss, and deforestation concerns. Cocoa constitutes 3.5% of Ghana’s GDP and 25% of its export market. Key cocoa processing companies include Tema Cocoa Processing Company (CPC), Niche Cocoa Industry Ltd, and Olam Cocoa Processing Ghana Limited. Major customers include the USA, Netherlands, Spain, and Germany.
World’s Third Largest Cocoa Producer – Indonesia
Cocoa Production: 6,67,296 tons
Indonesia stands as the world’s third-largest cocoa producer, contributing 13% to global cocoa output. With an annual production of nearly 0.6 million tons, Indonesia faces challenges such as deforestation and soil degradation due to cocoa cultivation. Cocoa accounts for 13.7% of the nation’s GDP but has a variable share in its export market. Notable cocoa-producing companies include Indonesia Premium Cacao and PT Cargill Indonesia – Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate Gresik. Major buyers include the United States, Germany, and France.