Brazil just dropped a cocoa bombshell this week! 🌍 The South American nation has suspended imports of dried and fermented cocoa beans from Côte d'Ivoire – the world’s #1 cocoa producer – citing potential pest risks in shipments. The move could ripple through global chocolate markets and impact millions of livelihoods.
Why the Sudden Ban?
Brazil’s agriculture ministry flagged concerns about beans potentially sourced from unauthorized neighboring countries, whose plant health status remains unclear. The suspension stays until Ivorian authorities guarantee export compliance. 🛑
By the Numbers
• Brazil produced 300K tons of cocoa in 2024 • Imported 42K tons from Côte d'Ivoire in 2025 • 1 in 5 Ivorians rely indirectly on cocoa (World Bank)
Chocolate Chain Reaction
The decision comes as Côte d'Ivoire’s cocoa sector battles export slowdowns and price drops. With global chocolate demand still rising, this trade pause could stir up supply chain drama. 🍫⚡
