Is Climate Change Hurting African Cocoa Farmers While Boosting India’s Cocoa Boom?

Indian farmers are shifting to cocoa production, seizing the opportunity presented by global shortages

As climate change disrupts African cocoa yields, India emerges as a growing player in the global market

• Indian farmers turn to cocoa cultivation amid rising global shortages.

• Climate change severely impacts cocoa production in West Africa, the world’s top cocoa region.

• India’s favorable conditions offer a new opportunity for domestic cocoa farming and exports.

  
  

Climate change is increasingly affecting cocoa farmers in West Africa, leading to significant declines in cocoa production. In response to these global shortages, Indian farmers are stepping up to fill the gap. Cocoa cultivation is expanding across states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh as Indian farmers adapt to changing market dynamics. Favorable growing conditions and rising demand make cocoa an attractive alternative crop for many Indian farmers, particularly in regions already suitable for tropical agriculture.

This shift is important because West Africa produces about 70% of the world’s cocoa, but erratic weather patterns caused by climate change are disrupting yields. As a result, the global cocoa supply faces a shortfall, which presents an opportunity for India. The country’s cocoa industry is still developing. Still, with the current global shortage, India could emerge as a key player in the cocoa supply chain, improving farmers’ livelihoods and boosting exports.

Technical Focus

Cocoa demand is projected to grow globally, driven by the chocolate and confectionery industries. While West Africa dominates global production, climate change-induced factors like irregular rainfall, rising temperatures, and pest outbreaks are taking a toll on yields. In India, cocoa is a relatively new crop but is gaining traction, particularly in states with favorable agro-climatic conditions. The Indian market has the potential to supply both domestic demand and international markets, with the cocoa industry poised for growth in the coming years.

One Indian farmer noted that cocoa offers better financial returns than traditional crops. “We’ve seen increased demand for cocoa, especially with shortages elsewhere. The crop grows well in our region and is a sustainable option,” he said. This surge in interest is supported by the Indian government and private companies, who are investing in training and infrastructure to enhance production capacity.

The rising demand for cocoa and the challenges faced by traditional cocoa-producing regions put India in a unique position to capitalize on the global shortfall. As more Indian farmers switch to cocoa, the country could play a critical role in stabilizing the global cocoa market, while also providing a sustainable and profitable alternative for its agricultural sector.