International cocoa prices are increasing significantly, generating palpable optimism among producers in the region. For its part, Peru is experiencing significant growth in exports.

Cocoa, known as “brown gold,” has long been a source of wealth and livelihood for producing countries in Latin America. Today, international prices for the product are experiencing a significant increase, generating palpable optimism among producers in the region. However, this growth scenario also poses a series of challenges that require attention and coordinated action at both local and international levels.

Peru Supports, Increases and Diversifies

For its part, Peru is experiencing significant growth in exports thanks to a combination of factors, such as the diversification of varieties, increased global demand and the implementation of public policies favorable to the sector.

In 2022, the last year with official data, Peru exported more than 65,000 tons of Peruvian cocoa beans for a free-on-board value of more than 155 million dollars, which meant an 18% growth in volume and 8% in value compared to what was exported in 2021.

In addition, the country has 60% of the total cocoa varieties and concentrates 36% of the world production of fine aroma cocoa, according to data from the Peruvian Chamber of Coffee and Cocoa of Peru.

This progress responds both to the considerable increase in prices at the international level, as well as in the volumes exported by our country, said the head of Mincetur.

The Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, Elizabeth Galdo, reported that between January and May 2024, exports of cocoa and its derivatives grew by 130% compared to the same period of the previous year, totaling US$300 million.

This was stated during the inauguration of the XV International Cocoa and Chocolate Show, where she explained that these figures are the result of both a considerable increase in prices at the international level, as well as in the volumes exported by our country.

The Main Destination of the Peruvian Cacao

She added that the main destination markets for Peruvian exports of cocoa and its derivatives, such as powder, paste and chocolate are: The Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Spain, France, The United States, Malaysia and Indonesia.

“We are aware that the cocoa production chain is one of the most relevant agro-industrial chains for our country both for its economic and social contribution, generating opportunities for small farmers and MSMEs at the national level,” said the head of Mincetur.

Currently exporters in Peru are offering cocoa at an FOB price of $6,402 per ton.