South American chocolate market trends

Chocolate consumption and market trends are evolving across South American nations, characterized by shifts in consumer preferences and product formats.

In Argentina, brands are responding to economic constraints and price sensitivity through innovation in flavors and formats. While traditional bars remain staples, there is a growing trend toward individual bars and boxed chocolates, with pistachio flavors gaining popularity. Consumers are increasingly viewing chocolate as a versatile snack.

In Peru, there is rising demand for specialty cacao and minimally processed products like cacao paste and nibs. Data from PedirosYa indicates that demand for high-percentage cacao products grew by 20% over the past year, aided by urban consumers gaining direct access to Amazonian producers.

In Chile, consumption remains steady at approximately 2.1 kilograms per person annually. The market is led by the Sahne-Nuss brand, which has expanded its reach through exports to the United States. Additionally, Chilean chocolate products have attracted interest from Brazilian tourists due to lower prices and higher availability compared to the Brazilian market.