Côte d’Ivoire: Heavy Rains Raise Concerns Among Cocoa Farmers as Mid-Crop Nears End

Heavy rainfall recorded in several cocoa-growing regions of Côte d’Ivoire  in recent days is raising concerns among farmers. Across many of the country's key producing areas, above-normal precipitation combined with limited sunshine has sparked fears of flooding and the spread of diseases that could disrupt the final phase of the mid-crop, which runs until August.

According to farmers, harvesting activities are continuing and significant volumes of cocoa beans are still leaving plantations. However, the lack of sunshine has increased the moisture content of the beans, making drying more difficult and raising concerns among buyers.

In several localities, including Abengourou, Daloa, Bongouanou, Yamoussoukro, Agboville, Divo and Soubré, growers are closely monitoring weather conditions. They fear that continued heavy rainfall could create an environment conducive to cocoa diseases and the proliferation of harmful insects.

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Farmers also believe that more sunny periods are now needed to help the remaining pods mature properly and ensure a satisfactory end to the mid-crop. At the same time, they are already turning their attention to the upcoming main crop, which runs from September to March, with the development of early flowers and pods expected to be closely watched from July onward.

As the world's leading cocoa producer, Côte d’Ivoire is currently in its rainy season, a critical period that will play an important role in shaping cocoa production prospects and influencing the global cocoa market.