Ivory Coast, the world's largest cocoa producer, has threatened to raise cocoa prices if the US implements proposed tariffs on its exports, a move that could have far-reaching implications for global chocolate supply chains. The country's agriculture minister, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, made the announcement on Thursday in response to the Trump administration's plan to impose a 21% tariff on Ivorian exports.

The proposed tariff, unveiled last week, is part of a broader package of increased duties targeting dozens of countries. However, on Wednesday, Trump announced a 90-day pause on the tariff rollout, opening a temporary window for diplomatic negotiations. Despite this reprieve, Ivory Coast is taking a firm stance, warning that it will increase cocoa prices if the tariffs are implemented.

The country exports between 200,000 and 300,000 metric tons of cocoa to the US annually, according to data from the Coffee and Cocoa Council (CCC). While Ivory Coast cannot directly influence global cocoa prices, set by international markets, the government could opt to increase export taxes. This move would allow the country to boost revenue but could ultimately drive up the cost of cocoa for consumers.

Agriculture Minister Kouassi Adjoumani emphasized that consumers would bear the brunt of the tariffs, stating, "When you tax our product that we export to your country, we will increase the price of cocoa and that will have a repercussion on the price to the consumer." This warning has sparked concerns about the potential impact on the global chocolate industry, which relies heavily on Ivorian cocoa.

In light of the tariffs, Ivory Coast is also seeking to strengthen its relationship with the European Union, ensuring that if its products are excluded from the US market, the EU would be able to absorb the excess supply. This move could lead to a shift in global trade dynamics, with the EU potentially becoming a more significant player in the cocoa market.

The proposed tariffs have sparked a heated debate about the impact of trade policies on global commodity markets. While the Trump administration has argued that the tariffs are necessary to protect American industries, critics argue that they will ultimately harm consumers and exacerbate trade tensions. As the situation unfolds, the global chocolate industry will be watching closely, bracing for potential price increases and supply chain disruptions.

In conclusion, the standoff between Ivory Coast and the US over cocoa tariffs has significant implications for global trade and the chocolate industry. As the world's largest cocoa producer, Ivory Coast's actions could have far-reaching consequences, and the outcome of this dispute will be closely watched by markets and consumers alike.