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Dubai — ISM

Special Report: Dubai’s Cocoa Ambitions: Can the UAE Become the Next Global Trade Hub?

As global cocoa supply chains face pressure from climate change, shifting demand, and realignments in trade routes, Dubai is positioning itself as a new hub for the international cocoa trade. But can the Emirate, long a powerhouse for gold, diamonds, and tea, add cocoa to its portfolio? 

,   and  Anthony Myers
5 min read
Image shows skyscraper office blocks where the DMCC is located in Dubai.
Destination Dubai? The Gulf state has a 5- to 10-year plan to create a full-fledged cocoa ecosystem. Image: DMCC

With strategic plans laid out by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and the success of regional trade events like ISM Middle East, the vision is bold. The execution, however, remains in progress.

Cocoa’s Global Reset

A combination of supply shocks, evolving consumer tastes, and sustainability concerns is pushing the $120 billion cocoa industry into a state of flux. West African producers — who account for over 70% of the world’s cocoa — face climate-related yield threats and pressure to process beans locally. Meanwhile, Asia’s chocolate consumption is rising, and markets in the MENA region are seeking more direct sourcing.

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Dubai, situated at the nexus of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, believes it can bridge these worlds. DMCC’s recent ‘Future of Trade: Special Cocoa Edition’ report outlines a 5- to 10-year plan to create a full-fledged cocoa ecosystem, including warehousing, blending, grinding, branding, and trade finance.

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