Cocoa Exports

Cocoa has captivated the world for hundreds of years as a big part of modern cuisine in the form of chocolate.

Cocoa has been reported to be a source of natural antioxidants with research showing its potential in immune regulation, reducing inflammation and diabetes control. It has also been vital in products and cosmetics which promote hair growth and skin repair.

According to a study undertaken by the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI), the International Cocoa Organization has published a list of the 23 producing countries and share of their exports which can be classified as fine or flavour cocoa. The definition or classification of fine or flavour cocoa remains quite ambiguous, however, it is generally accepted to mean fruit which includes herbal, floral and wood notes. Of the 23 countries listed, seven are CARIFOUM states.  

Exports of Sauces and Condiments

Data shows that export volumes for sauces and preparations from the Caribbean are not consistent.

Among the top exporters of sauces and condiments are Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Exports from all the other Caribbean states fluctuate significantly, which may be due to supply issues like sourcing of consistent raw materials or technical barriers to trade like labelling standards.  

The sauces and condiments market was valued at USD 142.5 billion in 2018 with five-year trends indicating growth to USD 181 billion by 2023. The industry is estimated to have an untapped market potential of USD 7.5 billion.  Major target markets are the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. These are also the markets with greatest potential for Caribbean exports of preparations for sauces and prepared sauces.  

Coffee Exports

Coffee has multifunctional properties as a food additive and nutraceutical. As a nutraceutical, coffee has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-dyslipidemic and anti-obesity properties.

Although most of the world’s coffee is grown in South and Central America, some islands in the Caribbean possess optimal conditions for the cultivation of coffee beans. In the case of Jamaica, these conditions are responsible for the smoothness of the Jamaican Blue Moutain Coffee, which is the region’s leading coffee export. The soil composition and the high mountain altitudes are responsible for the production of a mild, smooth bean with a strong aroma. These beans are heavily demanded and can sell for USD 50-60 per pound.

In 2019, the global coffee market has estimated to be valued at USD 102.15 billion, with projections to increase by 6.2% to USD 155.64 billion. Globally, the major markets for coffee are the United States, Germany, and Italy. The markets with greatest potential for Caribbean’s exports of coffee that is not roasted, nor decaffeinated are Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Agro-Processing Sector Brief

Honey Exports

Natural honey has been widely accepted as a food that has medicinal purposes for generations, from ancient civilizations to modern times.

Generally, with the shift to healthier alternatives, consumers prefer low-calorie, natural and healthy sweeteners. There is greater focus on healthier alternatives to refined sugar, such as raw cane sugar, honey and palm sugar amongst others.

As with aloe vera and other natural products, the growing trend of consumers demanding healthier alternatives has highlighted the benefits of using honey as a sweetener. Regular consumption of honey is associated with high levels of energy when compared to artificial sweeteners further providing nourishment, increased metabolic activity, growth and healthy living.

The global market value for honey is valued at USD 9.21 billion as of 2020 and is expected to grow by a projected 11.6% to USD 14.2 billion over the next five years. The International Trade Centre’s Export Potential Map indicates that the markets with greatest potential for Caribbean honey exports are Germany, Spain and China.  

Read more about the export opportunities for agro-processing.

Agro-Processing Sector Brief