Middle East and Africa Chocolate Market Size (2024 - 2029)

MEA Chocolate Market Analysis

The Middle East and African Chocolate Market is forecast to record a CAGR of 6.72% over the next five years.

Chocolate and chocolate-based products make most of their sales in the region through convenience stores and specialty outlets. The United Arab Emirates and most Middle Eastern countries rely on imports from major foreign brands, such as Barry Callebaut, Ferrero, and Lindt, rather than domestic production. Development in modern retailing also boosted the demand for chocolate in the Middle East. Furthermore, the large expatriate population in the Middle East and African countries, such as United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Nigeria, contribute to the increasing demand for chocolates in the region. For this reason, imported chocolates have a huge opportunity in this region, as a proper distribution network can help improve the addressable market in the Middle Eastern nations.

Growing demand for artisanal chocolates is driving demand in this region, with several companies starting their establishments and using them to promote their brand. With the trend moving toward quality, the inherent flavor of cocoa beans is given a particular emphasis. The products in this segment are prepared using fresh cocoa beans and carved into chocolates by small-scale chocolatiers. The premium cocoa market, with sustainability certification and single-origin, accelerates the market's overall growth. This development is driven by the health trend and the quest for more exclusive products. Consumers place greater emphasis on the quality of chocolates, owing to increasing health concerns involving cheaper chocolates in the region and a surge in the popularity of fine cocoa. Therefore, consumers are willing to pay more for chocolate products that meet their demands.

MEA Chocolate Industry Segmentation

Chocolate is a liquid, solid, or paste formed from roasted and powdered cacao beans that can be consumed on its own or used as a flavoring ingredient in other meals. The Middle East and Africa Chocolate Markets is segmented by Type, Product, Distribution Channel, and Geography. Based on type, the market is segmented into Dark Chocolate, and Milk/White Chocolate. By Product, the market is segmented into Softlines/Selflines, Boxed Assortments, Countlines, Seasonal Chocolates, Molded Chocolates, and Other Product Types. Based on Distribution Channel, the market is segmented into Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Specialty Retailers, Convenience/Grocery Stores, Online Retail Stores, and Other Distribution Channels. Based on Geography, the report includes South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Rest of the Middle East and Africa. For each segment, the market sizing and forecast have been done based on value (in USD million).