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Cameroon's Cocoa Exports Plummet by 71% Amid Rising Prices and Industry Optimism

© Sputnik . Alexander Kryazhev / Go to the mediabankCocoa beans, which serve as raw material for chocolate production, at the Novosibirskaya confectionary chocolate factory in Novosibirsk.
Cocoa beans, which serve as raw material for chocolate production, at the Novosibirskaya confectionary chocolate factory in Novosibirsk. - Sputnik Africa, 1920, 10.10.2024
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The cocoa market is experiencing upheaval with prices nearing record highs, driven by challenges like climate change and inadequate payments from market players to farmers. At the same time, production is declining because of severe weather, Swollen Shoot Virus Disease, and shortages of pesticides and fertilizers.
In the third quarter of 2024, Cameroon exported only 6,276 tonnes of cocoa beans, a significant 71% decline from the 21,724 tonnes exported in the same period last year, according to figures from the General Directorate of Customs.
This sharp drop in volume also came with a decrease in export value by 10.4 billion FCFA ($17.3 million).
Despite the plunge in exports, the price per kilogram of cocoa beans surged to an all-time high of 6,000 FCFA ($10) in 2024. The reasons for the export downturn have not been officially stated, though the price hike and market dynamics may be contributing factors, according to reports.
Workers load cocoa beans for shipment at the port in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Tuesday, May 10, 2011.  - Sputnik Africa, 1920, 19.08.2024
Sub-Saharan Africa
Cocoa Prices Unlikely to Fall Much This Year Despite Higher Production, Media Says
However, local media reported that during the 2024-2025 cocoa campaign launch, Minister of Commerce Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana expressed optimism, highlighting the improved quality of Cameroonian cocoa, which is now recognized globally. He urged industry stakeholders to continue enhancing the cocoa’s quality and reputation.
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