Chocolate lovers, brace yourselves ! Record-breaking temperatures in Côte d'Ivoire—the world’s largest cocoa producer—are causing crops to rot mid-harvest, with farmers like Christian Andre Yapi reporting 'beans turning black' under scorching conditions.
Yapi’s plantation near Agboville is a snapshot of the crisis: 70% lower yields this season due to heatwaves hitting 41°C (105.8°F)—way above the usual 35-36°C. 'The sun dries everything. No shade, no beans,' he says, working only mornings to escape the blaze.
Why This Matters:
• Cocoa accounts for 45% of global production here. • Agriculture fuels 25% of Côte d'Ivoire’s GDP and half its jobs. • No flowers = no cocoa pods: Agronomist Siaka Kone warns heat evaporates water critical for growth.
The Mali heatwave (48.5°C in April!) shows this isn’t just an Ivorian issue. Scientists blame climate shifts for prolonged droughts after 2023’s heavy rains. For markets, this could mean pricier chocolate bars worldwide—so keep an eye on those dessert budgets!
! Record-breaking temperatures in Côte d'Ivoire—the world’s largest cocoa producer—are causing crops to rot mid-harvest, with farmers like Christian Andre Yapi reporting 'beans turning black' under scorching conditions.
The Mali heatwave (48.5°C in April!) shows this isn’t just an Ivorian issue. Scientists blame climate shifts for prolonged droughts after 2023’s heavy rains. For markets, this could mean pricier chocolate bars worldwide—so keep an eye on those dessert budgets! 
