Home Arrow News Arrow Exploring The Manufacturing Process of Ivory Coast Cacao

Exploring The Manufacturing Process of Ivory Coast Cacao

User By Marcus Richard | Update on: Apr 02, 2026

Ivory Coast, the world's top cacao producer, has a fascinating story behind its renowned cocoa products. This article explores the journey of raw cocoa beans, from careful selection to fermentation, drying, and processing, showcasing the skill and dedication involved. Discover where cocoa is grown, current cocoa prices, and what makes the Ivory Coast's cacao truly exceptional.

Ivory Coast is a country leading the world in the production & exporting cocoa beans worldwide

Ivory Coast is a country leading the world in the production & exporting cocoa beans worldwide

Overview Of Cocoa Production & Processing Industry in Ivory Coast

The Ivorian agriculture industry accounts for around a quarter of Ivorian GDP, with cocoa accounting for more than 7.5 percent. The largest majority is grown in southern states such as Sud-Bandama, Comoé, Lagunes, Bas-Sassandra, Sassandra-Marahoué, and Montagnes.

Where is cocoa grown in Ivory Coast?

Cocoa is grown throughout the Ivory Coast, with most cocoa plantations located in the southern and central regions of the country.

  • Bas-Sassandra: This region is located in the southwestern part of the Ivory Coast and comprises several major cocoa-producing areas such as San Pedro, Sassandra, and Soubré. It is known for its fertile soil and favorable climate, making it one of the primary cocoa-producing regions in Ivory Coast.
  • Lôh-Djiboua: Situated in the central-western part of Ivory Coast, the Lôh-Djiboua region is another significant cocoa-growing area. It includes cities like Gagnoa, Divo, and Lakota, where cocoa cultivation is widespread.
  • Sud-Bandama: Located in the southern part of the Ivory Coast, the Sud-Bandama region is known for its agricultural productivity, including cocoa cultivation. Cities like Daloa and Issia are prominent cocoa-producing areas within this region.
  • Moyen-Cavally: This region, situated in the western part of the Ivory Coast, is characterized by its lush vegetation and suitable climate for cocoa cultivation. It includes areas like Guiglo and Duekoué, where cocoa farming is prevalent.
  • Agnéby-Tiassa: Located in the central part of the country, the Agnéby-Tiassa region is known for its cocoa production. Cities like Agboville and Tiassalé are key cocoa-growing areas within this region.

Interesting Fact: Tour cocoa in the Ivory Coast

Where is the place that cocoa grown in the Ivory Coast?

Where is the place where cocoa is grown in the Ivory Coast?

Some Of The Factors Influence On The Cacao Productivity In The Ivory Coast

  • Climate and Soil Conditions

Ivory Coast's climate and soil conditions provide optimal growing conditions for cocoa. The southern and central regions, where cocoa is predominantly cultivated, have a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures, abundant rainfall, and a distinct wet and dry season. The soil in these regions is rich in nutrients, contributing to cocoa trees' successful growth.

  • Smallholder Farmers

Smallholder farmers carry out the majority of cocoa farming in the Ivory Coast. These farmers typically own small plots of land and practice subsistence farming. They play a vital role in the country's cocoa industry, collectively contributing to the large-scale production of cocoa beans.

  • Farming Practices

Cocoa is typically grown in small, shaded farms known as "cocoa agroforests." These farms often feature a diverse range of trees, providing shade to the cocoa trees and promoting biodiversity. Farmers employ sustainable farming practices, such as intercropping with other crops like plantains or bananas, to optimize land use and maintain soil fertility.

  • Farming Techniques

The traditional method of cocoa cultivation in the Ivory Coast involves planting cocoa seeds in nurseries and later transplanting them onto the main farm. Farmers nurture the young cocoa trees until they are ready for production, which usually takes three to four years. Regular maintenance includes pruning, weeding, and pest management to ensure healthy tree growth and maximize yield.

  • Cooperative Systems

Many cocoa farmers in the Ivory Coast are organized into cooperatives or associations. These cooperative systems help farmers by providing access to resources, training, and market opportunities. They also play a crucial role in ensuring fair prices for cocoa and improving farmers' livelihoods.

How much cocoa does the Ivory Coast produce?

Ivory Coast is the world’s largest cocoa producer, accounting for approximately 40% of the global cocoa supply. On average, the country produces around 2 million metric tons of cocoa beans each year, although annual output may fluctuate due to factors such as weather conditions, plant diseases, and global market dynamics.

Cocoa production plays a vital role in both the Ivorian economy and the global chocolate industry, supplying cocoa beans to manufacturers worldwide. For the 2025/26 main crop season (October to March), Ivory Coast has already sold about 1.3 million tons of cocoa through forward contracts, highlighting its continued importance in meeting global demand.

Productivity of the cocoa industry in Ivory Coast increased yearly

The productivity of the cocoa industry in the Ivory Coast increased yearly

What Percent Of The World’s Cocoa Comes From Ivory Coast?

Cocoa was a significant crop in early South American societies. The name cocoa derives from the Nahuatl word "cacahuatl." Many think the plant originated in the Amazon and upper Orinoco basins, but the Mayans and Aztecs ultimately discovered strategies for cultivating cacao. For these cultures, the plant was regarded as a sign of prosperity, and its beans served as money. Cocoa beans are the primary component in the production of chocolate.

In 2023, Côte d’Ivoire exported $3.55 billion worth of cocoa beans, ranking as the world’s largest exporter among 133 exporting countries. During the same year, cocoa beans were the second most exported product in the country, out of 996 export categories, underscoring their strategic importance to the national economy.

Between 2022 and 2023, Côte d’Ivoire’s cocoa bean exports recorded the strongest growth in several key markets, notably the Netherlands ($80.8 million), Turkey ($56.7 million), and Russia ($43.5 million), reflecting rising global demand and expanding trade partnerships.

Ivory Coast & Ghana are two greatest cocoa-producing countries in the world

Ivory Coast & Ghana are the two greatest cocoa-producing countries in the world

How Much Are Cocoa Prices in the Ivory Coast?

Ivory Coast has raised its cocoa producer price. At least 80% of the 2025/2026 cocoa crop was sold between October and December at a guaranteed price of 2,800 CFA francs per kilogram (approximately $4.9/kg), helping to ensure income stability for farmers and limit exposure to global market fluctuations.

The price of cocoa beans increased 9% year on year

The price of cocoa beans increased 9% year on year

Get an Ivory Coast e-visa to taste the greatest cocoa flavor in the world

One of the nicest parts of visiting the Ivory Coast is that you can go to the farmers' massive cocoa plantations. Visitors may hand-pick and sample fresh cocoa fruits that have not been processed into cocoa beans and have an unusual sweet and sour flavor. In addition, travelers to the Ivory Coast learn about the dyeing process that converts cocoa beans into cocoa powder, the key ingredient used to make the chocolate bars we use today.

As a tourist, you must ensure all relevant documents are in place before excursing. At Ivory Coast Immigration Services, we make the visa application procedure simple and clear. Our eVisa service allows tourists to apply for and obtain visas online, avoiding the need for long lines and paperwork.

Travelers may save time and have peace of mind by applying for an Ivory Coast visa through our website. If you have any questions, please contact us. Ivory Coast Immigration Services is here to make your travel as easy and stress-free as possible.

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