In the first half of 2019, Côte d'Ivoire posted a good export performance for its main
export agricultural products, according to provisional port statistics data released yesterday.
International sales of cocoa beans increased by 7.1% between January and June, totaling 1.41
million tonnes (Mt) against 1.33 Mt, while those of cocoa products (powder, butter, chocolate)
increased by 5%, to 338,931 t against 323,979 t.
The performance of natural rubber, of which, it should be remembered, Côte d'Ivoire is the leading producer
continental, were even stronger, with an increase of 11%, to 370,220 t against 333,354 t.
The change in cotton sales was less but very real, with +5%, at 237,909 t against 226,632 t. Those
Port volumes also include fiber from landlocked producing countries such as Mali and
Burkina Faso.
Last in terms of volumes but truly prancing, coffee exports (Robusta and
Arabusta) jumped by 40%, to 44,285 t against 31,620 t.