The cocoa sector is experiencing strong momentum, with producers seeing a clear increase in their incomes. The price per kilo of cocoa is now trending toward 22,000 to 25,000 ariary, up from 10,000 ariary previously. This trend is driven by the growing international recognition of the quality of Malagasy products. Notably, the Voankazomamy cooperative and Claudio Mananjara, two producers from Ambanja, were awarded a bronze medal at the international Cocoa Excellence Award competition.
Another highlight for the sector was its notable presence at the International Agriculture Fair (FIA), held last week at the CCI Ivato. This key export sector showcased its entire value chain, supported by a large stand from the National Cocoa Council (CNC).
Producers, cooperatives, artisanal chocolatiers, support organizations, and research institutions like Fofifa were represented. “Our goal is to promote the cocoa industry. This collective presence allows for direct connections between producers and processors, and opens up new market opportunities,” explained Grégory Rabeson, Executive Secretary of the CNC.
Beyond raw beans for export, the event highlighted the importance of developing local processing. Chocolate production and sales in the domestic market are showing encouraging growth. A kilo of chocolate sells for between 90,000 and 100,000 ariary, with some chocolatiers processing up to 40 kg per day.
However, challenges remain. According to producers, the exceptional quality of Malagasy cocoa justifies better compensation. Labeled as “100% fine cocoa,” the Great Island’s beans currently trade between 5 and 6 US dollars on the international market, far from the 10 dollars reached by some South American origins. This situation fuels producers’ expectations for a fair price.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-15 06:09:30 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/produit-agricole-le-prix-du-cacao-la.html
