Flanders achieves record figures for chocolate exports
For the first time, chocolate and cocoa products have overtaken dairy products as Flanders' most important agricultural export products. In 2024, exports of chocolate and cocoa products peaked at 4.8 billion euros, which represents an increase of 33 per cent compared to 2023. Imports even rose by 79 per cent to 3.7 billion euros.
This exceptional growth is a direct result of the enormous price increases for cocoa and cocoa products. Disappointing harvests in major producing countries such as Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana, serious crop diseases and reduced use of crop protection products and fertilisers due to increased costs have depleted stocks and limited supply. As a result, chocolate and cocoa products are recording record figures for both imports and exports.
Flanders is thus confirming its international top status as a producer and exporter of chocolate and cocoa products. The ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge are not only used to import cocoa, but also to export finished chocolate delicacies to the whole world. The largest sales markets remain the Netherlands, France and Germany, followed by the United Kingdom, the United States and China.
“Chocolate is one of our strongest assets. With record figures in 2024, our chocolate makers are confirming their world-class status," said agriculture minister Jo Brouns. “They combine craftsmanship, innovation and export strength, putting Flanders on the international map. We must cherish this strength and continue to use it as a calling card for Flanders.”
The figures on trade in chocolate and cocoa products are included in the annual report on Flemish agricultural trade.
#FlandersNewsService | Illustration © PHOTO IMAGEBROKER
Related news
