Ivory Coast Cocoa Could be Hurt by Changing Weather Patterns

The Ivory Coast produces approximately one-third of the world’s cocoa, making this region vital for the global chocolate industry. However production has recently been threatened by changing weather patterns. The country currently experiences below average rainfall and increasing temperatures, which could hinder crop yield if this weather pattern continues. Sustained high temperatures and rainfall between 4.7-7.9 mm below average were observed across production areas over the past week. Rain earlier this month caused cocoa tree flowers to blossom. Without regular precipitation the increase in temperature could diminish soil moisture, damaging the flowering trees and subsequent cocoa pod formation, negatively impacting yield. Gro Intelligence subscribers can monitor these weather trends to get insight into future cocoa industry developments.