Global cocoa industry sees diverse economic and cultural developments

Global cocoa and chocolate sectors are seeing diverse developments marked by cultural celebrations and economic shifts. In Côte d’Ivoire, the 10th National Cocoa and Chocolate Days highlighted efforts to modernize the industry and engage younger generations to ensure the country's continued global leadership.

In the Dominican Republic, the cocoa industry has generated over $2.6 billion in foreign exchange since 2019. However, 2026 saw a decline in exports to $411.1 million, down from $724.7 million in 2025, partly due to production decreases linked to severe droughts. Meanwhile, MercaSID and General Mills launched a new Häagen-Dazs Belgian Chocolate formulation featuring 72% cacao to meet consumer demand for intense flavors.

Ecuador continues to leverage its historical significance, with archaeological evidence in Zamora Chinchipe suggesting cacao use dating back 5,300 years. Mexico also celebrated the industry through cultural events like the Fiesta del Cacao Mexicano in Cholula, which combined gastronomy with traditional arts. In Colombia, small-scale producers in Santander continue to rely on cacao as a vital economic pillar despite challenges with disease and lack of technical infrastructure.