Mexico celebrates cacao heritage and national production

Mexico commemorates the National Day of Cacao and Chocolate on September 2, a date established by official decree in 2019 to honor the cultural value of the seed and support the communities involved in its production.

Historically, cacao was central to Mesoamerican societies, including the Olmec, Maya, and Mexica, who used it for food, ceremonial beverages, medicine, and even as currency. Unlike modern sweet chocolate, ancient preparations often included water, chili, corn, and spices.

Today, cacao cultivation remains vital to the economy of southeastern Mexico. In 2025, the country produced 27,874 tons of cacao across more than 52,000 hectares. Tabasco led production with approximately 18,751 tons, followed by Chiapas and Guerrero. In 2024, Mexico's cacao production reached 28,447.6 tons, with a value exceeding 210 million pesos.