The market for cocoa powder

Abstract

The paper analyses the forces that shape demand and supply processes in the market for cocoa powder. A brief statistical summary is given of the main trends in international demand and production, and the spatial shifts in cocoa processing. Ample attention is given to the role of technology substitution and price factors in production decisions. The paper separately analyses the role of price, income levels and government regulation in the demand for cocoa powder. In the final part of the paper, all preceding elements are brought together in an integrated simulation model of the cocoa processing industry, showing the interactions between the market for cocoa powder and other elements of the cocoa industry (cocoa, cocoa butter, cocoa liquor, chocolate). Empirical evidence is presented with regard to main parameters of the model.cocoa, cocoa powder, industry study, simulation model, intermediate products, government regulation