Europe remains the global leader in chocolate production and exports, according to data cited by Euronews, maintaining a central role in the global cocoa supply chain despite rising production costs.
A report by CBI Netherlands values the European chocolate market at around €44.8 billion, with projections reaching €45.2 billion in 2026 and approximately €56.8 billion by 2031, according to Mordor Intelligence.
Europe is also the world’s largest importer of raw cocoa beans and semi-finished cocoa products, supported by strong logistics infrastructure and high per capita consumption.
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Germany vs. Belgium: volume and premium positioning
Germany leads in volume, with chocolate sales reaching approximately €9.42 billion in 2025, according to Eurostat. German producers export over 4 million tonnes annually, backed by a strong industrial base.
Belgium, on the other hand, dominates the premium segment, with exports valued at around €3.04 billion. Belgian chocolates are known for their high added value and global reputation for quality.
Ports such as Antwerp and Bruges remain critical hubs for raw material imports.
Poland and the Netherlands: growth and logistics
Poland has emerged as the third-largest exporter in the EU, with exports of approximately €2.49 billion and strong price growth of around 32%.
Netherlands plays a key logistical role. While its chocolate exports stand at about €1.21 billion, the country is the world’s largest cocoa processor, with Port of Amsterdam acting as Europe’s main entry point for cocoa imports.
Despite rising global demand, the industry faces cost pressures driven by supply constraints and higher energy prices, which are already reflected in increased consumer prices, including during the Easter season.
Photo: freepik.com
