The African continent has witnessed a significant surge in chocolate product exports, with Côte d'Ivoire emerging as the top exporter. According to Statista, in 2020, African countries saw a notable increase in chocolate product exports, with Côte d'Ivoire leading the pack by exporting over 51,000 metric tons of chocolate products.

This growth in chocolate exports is a direct reflection of Africa's dominant role in the global cocoa production market. The continent produces about 73.4% of the world's cocoa, with Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana being the top producers, according to a report by Afreximbank. Côte d'Ivoire, in particular, stands out as the world's largest cocoa producer, contributing nearly half of global production.

The global chocolate industry, valued at nearly $58 billion in 2022, is expected to reach $81.8 billion by 2030. As the demand for chocolate grows, so does the need for cocoa, creating jobs and generating income for cocoa farmers. This has a direct impact on local economies, making the chocolate industry a significant contributor to the continent's economic growth.

Following Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt came in second with around 28,000 metric tons of chocolate products, and South Africa rounded out the top three with just under 14,000 metric tons. Rounding out the top five African countries exporting chocolate products are Senegal and Zambia, with 3,771 and 2,033 metric tons, respectively.

Despite the growth in the industry, African chocolate exports face challenges such as unpredictable global market trends, shifting consumer tastes, changes in commodity prices, and international trade policies. Additionally, the industry is often criticized for the use of child labor and unsustainable farming practices, which not only harm the people involved but also damage the environment.

Despite these challenges, the potential for growth in the African chocolate industry is substantial. As the demand for chocolate continues to rise, African countries are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and further establish themselves as key players in the global chocolate market.

By Adekunle Agbetiloye, Senior Reporter at Business Insider Africa, with interest in the African economy, technology, energy transition, and climate change.