Asia Cocoa Grindings Rise 5.2% YoY to 223,503 Tonnes in Q1 2026, CAA Reports
The first-quarter 2026 grinding data released by Cocoa Association of Asia (CAA) provides a clear signal that Asian cocoa demand remains structurally strong despite broader macroeconomic uncertainty. The reported figures show Q1 grindings at 223,503 metric tonnes, representing a 5.20% year-on-year increase and a notably stronger 13.44% rise compared to the previous quarter (Q4 2025).
This dual growth dynamic, both sequential and annual is important. Quarter-on-quarter expansion of this magnitude suggests not merely seasonal recovery but a tangible rebound in processing activity. It indicates that grinders entered 2026 with improved margins or stronger forward demand coverage, likely driven by resilient chocolate consumption across key Asian markets.
Breaking down the quarterly composition, Q1 2026 exceeds all individual quarters recorded in 2025. The prior year showed relatively balanced quarterly distribution, with Q1 at 212,459 tonnes and Q4 at 197,022 tonnes. The jump to 223,503 tonnes therefore represents a new local high for recent periods, reinforcing the view that underlying demand is not plateauing.
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