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Day: September 13, 2025
Flanders’ Chocolate Exports Surpass Dairy Products for First Time
For the first time, chocolate and cocoa products have overtaken dairy products as Flanders’ most important agricultural export products. In 2024, exports of chocolate and cocoa products peaked at 4.8 billion euros, which represents an increase of 33 per cent compared to 2023. Imports even rose by 79 per cent to 3.7 billion euros, reports 24brussels.
This remarkable growth can be attributed to significant price increases for cocoa and cocoa products. Challenges such as disappointing harvests in major producing countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, along with serious crop diseases and reduced use of crop protection products and fertilizers due to rising costs, have diminished stocks and restricted supply. Consequently, both imports and exports of chocolate and cocoa products are witnessing unprecedented figures.
Flanders reaffirms its status as a leading producer and exporter of chocolate and cocoa products. The ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge play critical roles, not only in importing cocoa but also in exporting finished chocolate products globally. Major sales markets include the Netherlands, France, and Germany, with additional significant demand from the United Kingdom, the United States, and China.
“Chocolate is one of our strongest assets. With record figures in 2024, our chocolate makers are confirming their world-class status,” said Agriculture Minister Jo Brouns. “They combine craftsmanship, innovation, and export strength, putting Flanders on the international map. We must cherish this strength and continue to use it as a calling card for Flanders.”
The statistics pertaining to trade in chocolate and cocoa products are detailed in the annual report on Flemish agricultural trade.
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