Africa chocolate market to reach $66bn by 2035, says IndexBox

Africa’s chocolate and confectionery market is projected to grow to 12 million tonnes in volume and $66.1 billion in value by 2035, according to IndexBox analysis report. The report shows that in 2024 consumption reached 9.6 million tonnes and was valued at $48.2 billion, while production was slightly higher at 10 million tonnes. The forecast anticipates continued growth over the next decade, though at a slowing rate.

In 2024, Nigeria, Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo were the largest consumers of chocolate and confectionery in Africa, together accounting for around 34 per cent of total volume. Côte d’Ivoire was the leading exporter on the continent, supplying about 63 per cent of total export volume. South Africa and Egypt emerged as the main import markets by volume.

The report shows that overall consumption and production in Africa in 2024 peaked compared with recent years, with consumption remaining steady and production recording moderate growth. Per capita consumption was highest in Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya.

Trade patterns also shifted in 2024. Total exports of chocolate and confectionery declined in volume compared with 2023, while the value of exports rose. Cocoa-based product shipments from Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana remained dominant in export figures.

Import volumes were lower in 2024 compared with the previous year, with South Africa and Egypt leading in import quantities. Import prices varied across markets, with Mauritius recording the highest average price per tonne.

The report highlights varying growth trends across African countries, with some, such as Sudan, showing notable increases in both consumption and production value over the period from 2013 to 2024.