Cocoa Hits 34-month Low

Cocoa decreased to 2951.00 USD/T, the lowest since April 2023. Over the past 4 weeks, Cocoa lost 28.64%, and in the last 12 months, it decreased 66.36%.

Cocoa prices eased to below $3,000 per tonne, the lowest since May 2023, as the market remained pressured by sluggish demand, ample supply and expectations of a strong harvest in major producing countries. In the meantime, large volumes of cocoa remain unsold in top growers Ivory Coast and Ghana, as buyers are reluctant to pay official farm-gate prices above world levels, limiting governments’ ability to keep prices high. Ivory Coast is reportedly considering cutting the price it pays cocoa farmers to align with Ghana, responding to a sharp decline in global cocoa prices. Latest data showed ICE cocoa inventories rose to a 5.25-month high of 2,111,554 bags as of February 20. Regarding crop developments, farmers in Ivory Coast reported adequate soil moisture, which should improve the quality and size of the upcoming April-to-September mid-crop. With normal rains expected in March, they foresee no shortages and predict the crop will be larger and of higher quality than last season.

Cocoa prices continued their slide to below $3,100 per tonne, the lowest since May 2023, reflecting ongoing weak global demand and resulting restocking in key producing countries. Warehouses in Ghana and the Ivory Coast continue to accumulate unsold cocoa beans, even after Ghana cut farmer payouts to encourage supply. At the same time, ICE cocoa inventories rose to a 4.25-month high of 1,942,367 bags on Friday, signaling that more cocoa is available for immediate delivery than is being absorbed by the market. The accumulation of inventories and delays in sales increases the risk of additional pressure on international prices. Meanwhile, the cocoa market continues to face pressure as favorable weather across West Africa has strengthened production forecasts, fueling expectations of abundant supply, with South America also contributing increased output.