Cacao Crisis: Climate Change and the Looming Collapse of Global Cacao Production
Climate Change and the Looming Collapse of Global Cacao Production
Cacao, the crop behind chocolate, is in crisis—and climate change is the main culprit.
Cacao trees are highly sensitive and require a very specific set of conditions to thrive: consistent rainfall, warm temperatures, high humidity, and natural shade. These conditions are becoming increasingly rare in West Africa, particularly in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana—two countries that produce nearly 60% of the world’s cacao supply.
Unpredictable Weather Is Destroying Cacao Crops
The changing climate is creating more extreme weather patterns. Long periods of drought followed by intense rainstorms are disrupting cacao growth cycles. These conditions not only damage crops directly but also stress the trees, making them more vulnerable to disease.
Among the most serious threats are Black Pod Disease and the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus (CSSVD), both of which thrive under the new climate extremes. In fact, the World Cocoa Foundation reports that Ghana lost about 15% of its cacao trees to CSSVD in 2023 alone—a massive blow to an industry that millions depend on.
Farmers Are Struggling to Survive
Smallholder farmers, who grow the majority of the world’s cacao, are now facing falling yields and rising uncertainty. Many are seeing their incomes shrink to unsustainable levels. Some are being forced to abandon their farms entirely, while others turn to alternative crops or non-agricultural work in an effort to survive.
This decline in cacao production doesn’t just hurt farmers—it has global implications. Chocolate prices may rise, supply chains could be disrupted, and entire communities could face economic collapse.
The Future of Chocolate Is at Risk
If we don’t act, the world may soon face a chocolate crisis. Protecting cacao production means investing in:
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Climate-resilient farming techniques
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Shade-grown and disease-resistant cacao varieties
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Sustainable agroforestry systems
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Education and support for small-scale farmers
Consumers, companies, and governments all have a role to play in ensuring that cacao—and the people who grow it—can survive the changing climate.
Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it’s happening now, and it's threatening the crops that bring joy to millions around the world. If we hope to protect the future of chocolate and support the livelihoods of farmers, immediate and sustained action is essential.
Learn More :
The Cacao Crisis: is this the end of Chocolate?