### A Cocoa Revolution in the DRC: Economy, Environment and Outlook
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is on the verge of a watershed in its economic history by betting on a long-neglected crop: cocoa. This project aims to transform not only the country’s agricultural landscape but also make a significant contribution to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, this initiative is not limited to increasing production; it also raises questions about sustainability and environmental impact.
#### The Production Gamble
At a recent briefing in Kinshasa, Foreign Trade Minister Julien Paluku said that the DRC aims to produce 3 million tons of cocoa by 2030, an exponential increase from the current figures of 100,000 to 200,000 tons. To put this figure into perspective, it is interesting to compare this ambition with other cocoa-producing countries such as Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, which together account for around 60% of global production. This aspiration could put the DRC on the cocoa map, but it requires a well-executed strategy to overcome logistical and infrastructure challenges.
With 80 million hectares of arable land, the country has immense potential. However, experts often question the ability of initiatives to transform this vast area into cropland without degrading local ecosystems, and without encroaching on tropical forests that are crucial for biodiversity.
#### Quality vs. Quantity
Congolese cocoa already has a solid reputation on international markets thanks to its organic quality. Grown without chemical fertilizers, this cocoa represents not only a luxury product but also an opportunity for sustainable development. Indeed, recent market reports indicate a consumer trend towards environmentally friendly products, with a growing penchant for organic chocolate.
In comparison, Côte d’Ivoire faces major environmental challenges, due to massive deforestation linked to the expansion of cocoa plantations. The distinction between environmentally friendly cocoa and conventional cocoa could offer the DRC a significant competitive advantage, particularly in Europe, where strict standards are gradually coming into force regarding the traceability and origin of agricultural products. In this sense, the certification obtained by the DRC in August 2024 could become a major asset.
#### Innovation and Transformation
Another strategic axis mentioned by Minister Paluku is the local processing of cocoa. The processing plan in areas such as Musienene and Maluku, far from being a simple slogan, responds to the need to add value to Congolese products. A striking example can be drawn from the model of cocoa transformation into chocolate from Ghana, which has managed to develop a thriving local industry, including job creation and enrichment of rural communities.
The mantra “added value” is particularly relevant in the context of the DRC, where a large share of small cocoa producers, around 240,000, depend on this ecosystem. By ensuring a local market for processed products, the DRC could thus improve the living conditions of farmers and strengthen the economic resilience of villages.
#### Towards Strategic Diversification
Surprisingly, in the face of new European standards on deforestation, the DRC is taking proactive measures by considering alternative markets such as India and China, while taking advantage of AGOA to facilitate its exports. This suggests a long-term vision, moving away from traditional dependencies. Indeed, these emerging markets offer huge growth opportunities, with billions of potential consumers looking for new products. This diversification, if well orchestrated, could ultimately reduce the DRC’s economic vulnerabilities, placing it in a strong position on the world stage.
#### A Delicate Balance
However, this rise in cocoa ambition must not cause us to lose sight of the ecological balance. Minister Paluku emphasizes that arboriculture, with species such as cocoa, contributes positively to carbon sequestration. Such an approach, which values agriculture as an ally in the fight against climate change, could also serve as a strong argument to attract the interest of international partners.
To position itself on the cocoa market, the DRC must therefore not only capitalize on its assets, but also skillfully navigate the global challenges of sustainability and environmental preservation.
### Conclusion
The challenge of transforming the cocoa sector into an economic pillar represents both a laudable ambition and a decisive opportunity for the DRC. By focusing on quality, innovation and a clear vision of sustainability, the country can hope not only to reconnect with prosperous agriculture, but also to play a key role in international discussions on sustainable agriculture. As a former Congolese minister said: “To build the future, we must first cultivate hope.” And in the case of cocoa, this hope could well germinate. Thus, the future of Congolese cocoa could be not only economic but also synonymous with resilience and sustainability.