Import of cocoa paste in the same period increased by 36.6%, to 12.1 thousand tons of cocoa butter by 8.7% to 9 thousand tonnes. In addition, it was purchased 14,1 thousand tons of cocoa powder (without sugar), 15.4% more than last year.

"Russian producers of chocolates and chocolate confectionery continue to increase output following the restoration of consumption of chocolate in the country, and also in connection with the increase of export supply", – stated in a press release.

The gradual recovery of demand for chocolate confectionery products began at the end of 2016. This was mainly due to the slowdown of prices and the new year season. In early 2017 the consumption of chocolate confectionery products continued to recover.

According to a press release, the price of confectionery products in April increased by 4.5% compared to April 2016. This is the lowest figure for the last 2.5 years. The chocolate in April rose by 6.8% to 834,69 rubles per 1 kg.

Import growth also contributes to the fact that in the last six months is almost precipitous decline in world prices for cocoa beans and products of their processing. They decreased from 2550 British pounds per tonne in October 2016 up to 1550 pounds per ton in April of this year. In January, Russia was buying cocoa beans at $3250 per ton in April to $2440 per ton, according to CICR.

Photo: foodandhealth.ru