At Any Rate

Global Commodities: Cocoa demand crunch not as bitter as feared

Oct 20, 2025
Cocoa prices have sharply corrected, seeing a 20% monthly decline and nearing a 40% loss this year. Despite this, third-quarter grind data indicates demand may not be as weak as previously feared. A cautious industry is eager for price relief, although consumers may not see immediate benefits. Improved output from Ecuador and regulatory delays in the EU are also influencing market dynamics. Additionally, the podcast touches on trends in other commodities, including sugar and corn, as well as ongoing trade challenges.
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INSIGHT

Cocoa Price Correction Near Medium-Term Target

  • Cocoa futures have corrected ~20% month-on-month and are ~40% lower year-to-date from 2025 peaks.
  • Prices remain elevated historically but are moving toward the medium-term $6,000/tonne target.
INSIGHT

Hedging And Curve Shift Ease Market Stress

  • Producers are selling forward, adding liquidity and easing hedging for industry participants.
  • The futures curve has shifted toward contango in prompt months, signaling improving availability.
INSIGHT

Ecuador Expands Global Cocoa Supply

  • Cocoa production is diversifying, notably with rising Ecuadorian output reducing reliance on Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana.
  • This geographic shift is materially improving global supply and market resilience.
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