Dominican Cocoa exports surge by 92.9% in eight months of 2024

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has achieved record growth in cocoa exports, reaching a total value of $359.1 million between January and August 2024, reflecting a 92.9% year-on-year increase. The Export and Investment Center of the Dominican Republic (ProDominicana) reported this achievement while participating in the Northwest Chocolate Festival in Seattle, Washington—a major event for the global cocoa and chocolate industry.

ProDominicana noted that from January 2020 to August 2024, the country’s cocoa and derivative exports amounted to $1,200 million, with an annual growth rate of 18.6%. Key exports include cocoa beans, butter, fats, oils, chocolate, and cocoa powder. The United States was the largest importer of Dominican cocoa products, purchasing $116 million worth, followed by the Netherlands ($52.5 million), Belgium ($34.8 million), Indonesia ($33.6 million), Spain ($25.8 million), and Mexico ($25.1 million), among 39 other countries.

At the Northwest Chocolate Festival, Dominican companies such as Heritage Chocolate, Kah Kow, Definite Chocolate, Milz Chocolate, Oko Caribe, and Inaru showcased their top-quality cocoa products. Heritage Chocolate received special recognition at the “Best in Show” competition for its 71% cocoa chocolate. ProDominicana emphasized that these companies exemplify innovation in the Dominican chocolate industry, enhancing the country’s reputation as a global leader in fine cocoa production and boosting economic growth through international exposure and strategic partnerships.