Côte d'Ivoire: Innovations at 10th National Cocoa and Chocolate Days in Côte d'Ivoire fuel optimism for growers.

Shotlist Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire - Sept 3, 2026 1. Various of 10th National Cocoa and Chocolate Days, exhibits, visitors 2. SOUNDBITE (French) Hien Yrenssane Marie Neneditte, Chocolatier, ECACOG Company(startig with shot 1): "We are receiving very positive feedback from our customers, who are highly satisfied with the quality of our products. Our production volume is leading both locally and globally. Our cocoa production extends beyond just manufacturing, and we are also exploring cocoa processing." 3. Various of fashion show in progress 4. SOUNDBITE (French) Divine Dama, model: "I am very happy to showcase for the chocolate of my country. Chocolate is something sweet. So, parading for this local product gives me joy." 5. Meeting in progress 6. SOUNDBITE (French) Bruno Nabagne Kone, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Food Production (starting with shot 5/partially overlaid with shots 7-8): "Difficult decisions had to be taken quickly, in particular the decision to set the mid-harvest price immediately at 1,200 CFA francs per kilogramme. We know that many people did not understand this decision, but I would like to take this opportunity to commend the constructive dialogue we have maintained with all stakeholders in the sector throughout this process." SHOTS OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE 7. Attendees, exhibits 8. Various of meeting attendees SHOTS OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE 9.Various of visitors tasting product, visitors Storyline The 10th National Cocoa and Chocolate Days was held in Côte d'Ivoire's economic capital, Abidjan, from Tuesday to Thursday, with many attendees expressing confidence that the innovations seen at the event will drive value-driven growth in the industry. As the world's leading producer of cocoa beans, the commodity has carved an important place in the nation's history and economy. Inside the main venue, exhibitions showcased a range of cocoa products, from chocolate to cocoa butter and innovative dishes that combine the ingredient with local sovereignty crops. Some of the exhibitors said their products were a big hit with the local crowd. "We are receiving very positive feedback from our customers, who are highly satisfied with the quality of our products. Our production volume is leading both locally and globally. Our cocoa production extends beyond just manufacturing, and we are also exploring cocoa processing," said Hien Yrenssane Marie Neneditte, chocolatier of ECACOG Company. A cocoa fashion show was also held where designers showcased bold, artistic creations born from the fusion of fashion and chocolate. Visionaries said the aim was to demonstrate that cocoa can inspire haute couture and showcase Ivorian craftsmanship, transcending its agricultural and industrial role. "I am very happy to showcase the chocolate of my country. Chocolate is something sweet. So, parading for this local product gives me joy," said Divine Dama, a model. Cocoa is one of Côte d'Ivoire's most important cash crops and a key pillar of its agricultural and export economy. Economists say it’s the backbone of the nation's economy, supplying about 40 percent of the world's entire cocoa bean supply. But the sector is currently reeling from a sharp drop in international cocoa prices, down a staggering 57 percent compared to last year. This was also a hot topic at one of the sector's biggest events. "Difficult decisions had to be taken quickly, in particular the decision to set the mid-harvest price immediately at 1,200 CFA francs per kilogram. We know that many people did not understand this decision, but I would like to take this opportunity to commend the constructive dialogue we have maintained with all stakeholders in the sector throughout this process," said Bruno Nabagne Kone, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Food Production. The Côte d'Ivoire government has urged stakeholders to stay calm, show solidarity and engage in dialogue. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]