The global cocoa market is facing challenging conditions impacting major producers like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana.
Cocoa prices have exceeded $10,000 per ton, reaching historic levels with a 2.4-fold increase since the beginning of 2024. However, drought continues to worry cocoa farmers in Côte d’Ivoire.
Drought Concerns and Harvest Quality
Côte d’Ivoire is currently experiencing its dry season, which runs from mid-November to March. In recent weeks, a lack of rainfall in cocoa-growing regions, particularly in Daloa, Bongouanou, and Yamoussoukro, has been notable. Rainfall in these areas has fallen below the five-year average.
Farmers fear that insufficient moisture could negatively impact both the ongoing main harvest (October-March) and the upcoming mid-crop (April-September). While cocoa pods are still sufficient for the January harvest, persistent drought could harm the late stages of the main harvest and the early development of the mid-crop.
Importance of Rainfall and Outlook
To secure a strong mid-crop in April, farmers emphasize the need for regular rainfall to support flowering and pod development. They are closely monitoring weather conditions in January, hoping for rain every ten days. Without adequate rainfall, yield and quality losses could escalate.
These adverse conditions in Côte d’Ivoire could affect not only local producers but also the global cocoa supply chain and international markets.
