Cocoa: Ivory Coast sets a record price of 2,200 FCFA/kg

Ivorian producers are benefiting from a historic increase in the farm gate price of cocoa, raised to 2,200 FCFA (3.6 dollars) per kilogram for the 2024/2025 mid-crop season, which began on April 1, 2025. This announcement, made by Mr. Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, Minister of State in charge of Agriculture, marks a 22% increase compared to the price of the main crop season (1,800 FCFA/kg) and reflects a market dynamic where supply struggles to keep up with demand.

With 60% of global production, Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana remain central players in the cocoa market. However, Ivorian production for this mid-crop season is expected to range between 280,000 and 300,000 tons, a significant decline compared to the usual average of 500,000 tons. On an annual scale, the harvest is expected to remain below 2 million tons, confirming the contraction that began during the previous season (1.8 million tons). Water shortages, aging orchards, and the spread of Swollen Shoot, a devastating viral disease, are among the main factors contributing to this decline.

This imbalance between supply and demand fuels the surge in global prices, a rising trend that has been ongoing for several months. In this context, Côte d'Ivoire is adjusting its strategy, ensuring farmers receive higher compensation, although this record price also highlights the structural challenges facing the sector. A profound transformation of the production model is necessary to ensure the sustainability of the industry and its long-term competitiveness.

Source: Agence ecofin, MEPD Web Portal Editorial Team