As the new cocoa season begins across West Africa, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is once again supporting exporters in a region that produces half the world’s cocoa. The crop underpins the livelihoods of millions of small-scale farmers, and demand for cocoa beans and cocoa products reaches markets around the world.
Through its local logistics expertise and global network, MSC connects key cocoa-producing countries in West Africa with major importing markets in Europe, North America and East Asia. Cocoa is a sensitive commodity, making careful handling, reliable transport and regional expertise important throughout its journey.
The Economic Importance of Cocoa in West Africa
With so much depending on cocoa, moving each season’s crop reliably is central to the livelihoods it supports and the income it generates across both countries.
From Farm to Market: MSC Transports Cocoa with Expertise and Care
Once harvested, cocoa beans must be shipped quickly as prolonged storage in tropical humidity can lead to losses. Drawing on more than 50 years of experience shipping cocoa, MSC supports these time-sensitive shipments with dedicated teams combining local knowledge and cocoa expertise, tailored solutions based on customer requirements, regular trade services and 24/7 container availability.
In addition, MSC’s maritime and inland services provide flexible loading and delivery options while its intermodal network supports door-to-door deliveries. These services are complemented by strategically located facilities, including Terminal San Pedro (TSP) in Côte d’Ivoire and Lomé Container Terminal in Togo. Exporters can also access value-added services such as integrated transport, thermal liners and digital business solutions, including MSC’s electronic Bill of Lading, which is designed to make shipping more efficient, secure and sustainable.
Together, these services help keep West Africa’s cocoa trade moving reliably, season after season. As another cocoa season begins, MSC continues a role built over more than 50 years: helping exporters in a sector that supports millions of livelihoods and contributes significantly to regional economies.
MSC is proud to help local producers and exporters reach new markets as they expand their businesses and global presence.
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