International Cocoa & Chocolate Day: Start of the New Season
News News blog
On October 1, the world celebrates International Cocoa and Chocolate Day. This day is much more than just an occasion to enjoy sweet treats. It marks the official kickoff of the new cocoa season and shines a spotlight on the people behind every bar of chocolate.
Season Kickoff: The Start of a New Harvest
While in countries like Germany, chocolate manufacturers are working flat out to stock the Christmas shelves, the real work is just beginning in the West African growing regions. There, farmers are harvesting the first cocoa pods of the new season from the cocoa trees. October 1 thus heralds a new chapter in the complex supply chain that brings chocolate to our tables.
Economic Significance for Producing Countries
For countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, October 1 is particularly important. Together, they account for over 60 percent of global cocoa production. Cocoa is a major source of income for millions of people there. On this day, government agencies set the prices for the coming season. It then becomes clear how good the harvest will be and whether climate change is affecting the farmers.
The People Behind the Chocolate
International Cocoa and Chocolate Day honors the tireless work of smallholder farming families. Approximately 90 to 95 percent of the world’s cocoa comes from small family farms that cultivate two to seven hectares. These families rely on cocoa farming for their livelihood.
Every bar of chocolate embodies the labor, knowledge, and dedication of these farmers. Without their meticulous work in the tropical cocoa belt—from harvesting the fruit to fermenting and drying the beans—we would not be able to enjoy chocolate in Europe, America, and Asia. This day reminds us of their indispensable role.
