Ecuador: The top exporter of cocoa beans in the America

Ecuador is internationally known for producing some of the finest cocoa in the world, especially fine aroma cocoa, highly valued for its quality and distinctive flavor.

important aspects about cocoa exportation in Ecuador:

Quality of cocoa: Ecuador is recognized for producing fine aroma cocoa, appreciated for its floral and fruity flavor. This reputation has been earned thanks to the ideal climatic and geographical conditions for cocoa cultivation in regions such as the provinces of Esmeraldas, Los Ríos, Manabí, and Napo, among others.

Production: Ecuador is one of the main global cocoa producers. Production is mainly concentrated in small family farms, where both fine aroma cocoa and traditional cocoa varieties are grown. Cocoa production can vary depending on climatic and market factors.

Exportation: Cocoa is one of Ecuador's main export products. The main export destinations include countries in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Ecuadorian cocoa exports are usually both cocoa beans and derived products, such as chocolate and confectionery products.

Added value: Although Ecuador mainly exports cocoa beans, there has also been significant growth in the export of cocoa products with higher added value, such as gourmet chocolate and confectionery products. This has allowed Ecuadorian producers to capture a greater share of value in the cocoa supply chain.

Sustainability: There is a growing interest in sustainable cocoa production in Ecuador, focusing on environmentally friendly agricultural practices, supporting small producers, and improving living conditions in cocoa-producing communities.

In 2023, according to the International Trade Center, Ecuador grabbed about 10% of the global cocoa bean market share, making it the third-biggest producer and exporter of cocoa beans worldwide. Ecuador ships out fine aroma national cocoa and CCN-51 cocoa, trailing behind only Ivory Coast (36%) and Ghana (15%), the top cocoa bean exporters globally.