HS Code:
Cocoa powder, not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, classified under HS Code 1805.00.00, is a key ingredient in the food and beverage industry, primarily used in the production of chocolate, confectionery, and baked goods. This product is derived from cocoa beans through processes like roasting, grinding, and pressing to remove cocoa butter, resulting in a fine, unsweetened powder. It is distinct from sweetened cocoa mixes and is traded globally as a raw or semi-processed commodity. The trade of unsweetened cocoa powder is influenced by factors such as cocoa bean production, demand for chocolate products, and price volatility in commodity markets.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 1.2 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
350,000 metric tons
29% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
200,000 metric tons
17% of global trade of total trade
Stable
150,000 metric tons
12.5% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
120,000 metric tons
10% of global trade of total trade
Stable
100,000 metric tons
8.3% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-ACP or USMCA)
Rising demand for unsweetened cocoa powder in health-conscious markets
Increased exports to regions like North America and Europe due to the popularity of low-sugar and organic chocolate products
2021-2022
Price volatility due to climate change impacts on cocoa production
Fluctuations in supply from major producers like Cรดte d'Ivoire and Ghana have led to unstable pricing, affecting trade volumes
2020-2022
Growth in sustainable and fair-trade certified cocoa products
Higher demand for ethically sourced cocoa powder, prompting exporters to adopt certification, which can increase costs but also market access
2019-2022
The European Union introduced regulations requiring proof that cocoa products are not linked to deforestation, affecting exporters from West Africa who must comply with traceability requirements.
June 2023
Potential short-term trade disruptions for non-compliant exporters, but long-term benefits for sustainable producers.
Cรดte d'Ivoire and Ghana implemented a Living Income Differential (LID) policy to ensure fair prices for cocoa farmers, which includes premiums on cocoa products like unsweetened powder.
July 2020 (ongoing impact in 2023)
Increased export prices for cocoa powder from these countries, potentially reducing competitiveness but improving farmer livelihoods.
The United States imposed additional scrutiny on cocoa imports from specific regions due to concerns over forced labor in supply chains, requiring enhanced documentation.
January 2023
Temporary delays in imports from affected regions, pushing buyers to diversify sourcing to other countries.