Ivory Coast Cocoa Traceability Rates Show No Improvement

Ivory Coast cocoa traceability rates have shown no improvement, according to industry data released on Tuesday. The figures come as the European Union prepares to implement its regulation aimed at preventing deforestation linked to cocoa production. The regulation requires proof that cocoa entering the EU market has not been grown on land deforested after December 2020.

Exporters in Ivory Coast, which produces around 40 percent of the world's cocoa, must demonstrate traceability from farm to export point to comply with the rules. Industry reports indicate that only a small fraction of Ivorian cocoa currently meets full traceability standards.

The rates have remained largely unchanged over the past year despite efforts by government officials and companies to improve documentation systems.

Farmers and cooperatives face significant hurdles in adopting the necessary tracking technologies and practices. Many smallholder farms lack formal land titles or digital record-keeping systems required under the EU framework. The EU regulation is scheduled to begin enforcement in late 2026 for larger operators and 2027 for small and medium enterprises.

Non-compliant cocoa will be barred from sale in the European market.

“Traceability rates have stagnated at levels insufficient for full compliance with the upcoming EU rules.”

Government officials have worked with international partners to expand training programs for farmers on sustainable practices and record-keeping. However, progress has been slower than anticipated due to infrastructure limitations in rural areas. Cocoa exporters have expressed concerns about potential disruptions to shipments if compliance gaps persist.