Cocoa farmers in Ivory Coast are hoping for a more significant return of rain to improve the quality of the beans for the mid-season harvest, as rainfall has been below average in recent days. This situation comes at a crucial time for production in the world's leading cocoa supplier.
According to farmers interviewed across the country, rainfall remains insufficient to guarantee optimal conditions, particularly for the harvest period which extends from mid-March to August. Although the rainy season officially began in April, rainfall has not yet reached expected levels in several production areas.
Despite these conditions, producers are generally reassuring. They indicate that the cocoa trees are currently bearing a good variety of pods, in small, medium and large sizes, which suggests a satisfactory production potential if the weather conditions improve.
In some regions, such as Daloa, Bongouanou, and Yamoussoukro, where rainfall was particularly low, the heat had a positive effect by facilitating the drying of the already harvested beans. This process is essential to guarantee the quality of cocoa destined for export.
Farmers also point out that the harvest is beginning to intensify and that many pods are expected to be picked between May and July. This period will be crucial in assessing the true impact of weather conditions on production volume and quality.
In a country whose economy is heavily dependent on cocoa, changing weather conditions remain a key factor. Improved rainfall in the coming weeks could therefore support a more abundant and higher-quality mid-season harvest.
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