Cocoa Industry
The cocoa industry is a global sector focused on the production and trade of cocoa beans, which are the primary ingredient in chocolate. Cocoa is mainly grown in tropical regions, with the largest producers being Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Indonesia. The process involves harvesting cocoa pods, fermenting the beans, and drying them before they are shipped to manufacturers.
Once processed, cocoa beans are transformed into various products, including cocoa powder and chocolate bars. The industry faces challenges such as fluctuating prices, environmental concerns, and labor issues, particularly regarding child labor in some producing countries. Efforts are ongoing to promote sustainable practices and improve the livelihoods of cocoa farmers.