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Saudi Arabia is expected to surpass its 2022 cocoa import target given the success of the first quarter.

by Swati Gupta

April 21, 2023 11

Saudi Arabia’s cocoa imports are on track to exceed its 2022 target due to a strong first quarter of 2023. The country had set a target of importing 10,000 tons of cocoa by 2022, but with the latest figures, it is expected that the target will be surpassed.

The increased cocoa imports is a result of the growing popularity of chocolate and other cocoa-based products in Saudi Arabia. The country has seen a surge in consumer demand for chocolates and confectionery, with many people now incorporating these treats into their daily routines.

According to industry experts, the rise in demand for cocoa-based products in Saudi Arabia can be attributed to several factors. One of the key drivers is the increasing disposable income of the population, which has enabled more people to indulge in luxury items like chocolate. In addition, the growing number of expatriates living in the country has also contributed to the rise in demand for cocoa-based products, as they bring with them their own culinary traditions and tastes.

The cocoa imports to the UAE have grown significantly in recent years, and this trend is likely to continue. The growth of the cocoa market in Saudi Arabia has also been fueled by the government’s efforts to promote the country’s tourism industry. In recent years, the government has invested heavily in the development of tourist destinations and has launched several initiatives aimed at attracting more tourists to the country. This has led to a significant increase in the number of tourists visiting Saudi Arabia, many of whom are looking to experience the country’s rich culinary culture.

As a result of the growing demand for cocoa in Saudi Arabia, the country has become an increasingly important market for cocoa producers around the world. Major cocoa-producing countries such as Ghana and Ivory Coast have been quick to capitalize on this trend, with many now focusing their efforts on supplying the Saudi market.

In response to the increased demand for cocoa, many companies have been expanding their operations in Saudi Arabia. For example, Swiss chocolate giant Lindt & Sprüngli recently opened a new flagship store in Riyadh, the country’s capital, as part of its expansion plans in the region. Similarly, Nestlé has also been increasing its investment in the Saudi market, with the company recently announcing plans to build a new manufacturing facility in the country.

The success of the cocoa market in Saudi Arabia has also led to increased investment in the country’s agricultural sector. Many investors are now looking to take advantage of the growing demand for cocoa by investing in the country’s cocoa farms and processing facilities.The cocoa imports have come from countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire. The UAE has seen a significant rise in cocoa consumption as well as demand for higher quality products.

One company that has been particularly active in this area is the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC). SALIC has been investing heavily in the country’s agricultural sector, with a particular focus on crops like cocoa. In 2021, the company announced plans to invest $500 million in a new cocoa farm in Africa, as part of its efforts to expand its operations in the cocoa market.

The success of the cocoa market in Saudi Arabia has also had a positive impact on the country’s economy. The increased demand for cocoa has created new job opportunities in the country, particularly in the manufacturing and processing sectors. In addition, the increased revenue generated by the cocoa market has helped to support the country’s broader economic growth, providing a much-needed boost to the country’s overall economic outlook.

Looking ahead, the prospects for the cocoa market in Saudi Arabia look bright. With demand for cocoa-based products continuing to rise, it is expected that the country’s imports of cocoa will continue to exceed its targets in the coming years. This is likely to create new opportunities for investment and growth in the cocoa market, helping to support the country’s broader economic development and promoting the country as a key player in the global cocoa industry.