West African countries Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon have emerged as the dominant players in the global chocolate industry, producing nearly 70% of the world’s cocoa beans.
According to Pulse.ng, the main component of chocolate, cocoa beans, are primarily grown in this region, making it a key source of the world’s supply. The word “cocoa” has its roots in the Native American word “cacahuatl” and has long been a symbol of wealth and a means of exchange.
Around 50 per cent of the world’s cocoa production is produced in Ghana and the Ivory Coast.
Ivory Coast
The Ivory Coast supplies more than 45% of cocoa beans used to make chocolate in the world.
Ivory Coast alone generated about 2.1 million metric tons of cocoa beans in 2022, according to Statista and the amount is expected to increase.
Cocoa is a source of livelihood for many Ivorians. Over eight million Ivorians rely on cocoa production for a living, according to the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF).
Ghana
Ghana is thought to have produced the most cocoa beans ever with an estimated 689 thousand metric tons of production last year, according to Statista. This is anticipated to rise further in 2022–2023, reaching approximately 750 thousand metric tons.
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Nigeria
According to Statista, in 2012/2013, Nigeria produced around 238 thousand tons of cocoa beans, and it is predicted that it will produce about 280 thousand tons in 2022/2023.
Cameroon
In 2012/2013, Cameroon produced about 225 thousand tons of cocoa beans, and in 2022/2023, it is estimated to produce 300 thousand tons, per Statista reports.
This cocoa is taken to European countries where they are manufactured. The four top chocolate-producing countries are Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Poland, Investopedia reports.
