Cocoa is a fruit used in producing various things such as beverages, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, chocolate and so on. Cocoa is also used in making cosmetics due to its health benefits — fatty acids.
Cocoa beans play a crucial role in the economies of countries producing them. Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana provide almost half of the cocoa produced globally. The largest cocoa-producing countries face challenges such as climate change, illegal trading, and unstable prices — which all tend to slow down or undermine cocoa production.
Below are the largest cocoa producing countries in the World as listed by World Atlas:
1. Côte d’Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire is the largest cocoa-producing country in the world. The country produces about 2.3 million tons of cocoa. The exportation of raw cocoa is about 70%, cocoa butter 7%, and cocoa paste accounts for 12%.
The country’s export of cocoa is valued at 3 billion dollars. The stakeholders in the cocoa industry, which includes farmers create different initiatives to strengthen their network.
2. Ghana
Ghana is the second largest cocoa producing country in the world with over 650 thousand tons. Cocoa in Ghana is a means of survival and great support to the economy. Even though there are challenges such as climate change and unstable pricing, the country’s total export is valued at over 1 billion dollars
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3. Indonesia
Indonesia has a farming programme focused on cocoa. The country is a key player in the global market from intensifying the involvement of major stakeholders. The country started cocoa production in the 1970s and the industry has been growing ever since. By 2026, Indonesia’s cocoa production is expected to exceed 640 thousand tons.
4. Ecuador
Ecuador’s cocoa production has reached over 375 thousand tons. The country’s cocoa is much loved and unique because of its flavour and variety. There is room for growth and investment to meet the rising global demand for the produce, which will boost production and exportation and set Ecuador as a leader in the global market.
5. Brazil
Brazilian farmers’ dedication towards cocoa production and practices are globally recognised. Brazil’s cocoa is one of the finest and highest-quality varieties in the world. Brazil produces about 300 thousand tons of cocoa, exporting 2 million dollars worth of beans. Before 2030, experts believe that the country’s production would reach 400 thousand tons.
6. Cameroon
Over the years, Cameroon has continued to improve the quality of its cocoa beans. The country’s production capacity is now beyond 295 thousand tons. Unlike others, Cameroon produces and sells its cocoa locally; it exports a smaller share of its produce. The country has implemented various initiatives to strengthen its relationship with stakeholders and work efficiency.
7. Nigeria
Nigeria’s cocoa production will hopefully increase from 284 thousand tons, considering the conducive weather in the southwestern part of the country and investors who are interested in the sector. Cocoa bean exportation is quite stable even though there are challenges such as illegal trade, climate change, and unstable markets.
8. Peru
Peru’s bean production has reached over 166 thousand tons. Cocoa has been in this country since 1900 BC when they used it for drinks — which is still in practice today. Peru has one of the finest cocoa that has rich flavours and different varieties. Peruvian cocoa export is expected to increase by 2 to 5%.
9. Dominican Republic
Cocoa production remains an important sector in the economy of the Dominican Republic. They have reached about 65 thousand tons which would likely increase in the coming years. Cocoa was first introduced to the country in the 17th century, then gradually became more propagated. Today, the country is also a leading supplier in the world. Production is expected to increase by 4.4% before 2030.
10. Colombia
Colombia’s cocoa production (59 thousand tons) is believed to increase considering the different initiatives in the country. One of the leading customers of Colombia’s produce is the United States – which has helped boost the growth of the sector.
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