Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast – (African Boulevard News) – Cocoa shipments to ports in Côte d’Ivoire are expected to fall by 28.5% year-on-year in the first quarter of the 2023/2024 season due to erratic weather conditions, according to cocoa growers.
The West African nation is the world’s leading producer of cocoa, with farmers depending on the crop for their livelihoods. However, recent climate challenges have taken a toll on production, impacting the global cocoa market.
Unpredictable weather patterns, including prolonged droughts and heavy rains, have disrupted cocoa farming activities across the country. These adverse conditions have hindered the growth and development of cocoa trees, leading to a significant decrease in output.
As a result, cocoa growers in Ivory Coast are bracing themselves for a sharp decline in production during the first quarter of next year, with estimates pointing towards a 28.5% drop compared to the same period this year. This decline is expected to have a significant impact on global cocoa prices.
“Weather conditions throughout the year have been extremely challenging for cocoa farming in Ivory Coast,” said Pierre Konan, a spokesperson for the National Association of Cocoa Producers. “Farmers have been battling with droughts and heavy rains, causing a decline in cocoa pod development and affecting yields.”
The decrease in cocoa production is a cause for concern not only for farmers but also for the government, as cocoa accounts for a significant portion of Ivory Coast’s export revenue. The country relies heavily on cocoa exports to support its economy and fund development projects.
Industry experts have warned that the decline in cocoa production could lead to a rise in global chocolate prices. “The drop in cocoa production in Ivory Coast will have a ripple effect on the global cocoa market,” said Marie Diomande, a cocoa analyst. “As supply decreases, prices are likely to increase, impacting chocolate manufacturers and consumers worldwide.”
To mitigate the impact of climate change on cocoa production, the Ivorian government has been implementing various initiatives. These include providing farmers with advanced agricultural techniques, improving irrigation systems, and promoting diversified farming practices.
Efforts are also being made to develop more resilient cocoa varieties that can withstand extreme weather conditions. However, these measures will take time to yield results, and in the meantime, cocoa growers in Ivory Coast are facing significant challenges.
The latest forecasts indicate a challenging start to the cocoa production season in Ivory Coast. As farmers navigate the uncertainties brought about by climate change, the decline in cocoa production is likely to continue unless effective adaptation strategies are implemented and supported by all stakeholders.
