What is Barry Callebaut's CEO saying about the potential impact of El Niño on cocoa prices, and how does he compare it to recent price volatility?

Barry Callebaut's CEO Hein Schumacher warned that El Niño weather conditions could drive up cocoa bean prices by 'a few thousand pounds per metric ton', citing reduced crop yields due to extreme weather — such as much higher than normal rainfall in Ecuador and much higher temperatures in West Africa. However, he emphasized that prices 'should not jump as dramatically as they have done in the past couple of years', noting London cocoa futures were at £2,944 ($3,964) per ton — significantly down from over £9,000 in April 2024. He added that clarity on El Niño’s full impact typically emerges by end-June or July, and that the company is observing these developments 'very cautiously'.

According to the CEO, what is the main cost concern for Barry Callebaut related to the Middle East war, and why is it significant for the company's operations?

According to CEO Hein Schumacher, the main cost concern arising from the Middle East war is rising fuel costs, which he identified as Barry Callebaut's 'main concern in terms of next year's overall costs'. He explained that fuel has 'a direct impact on our operations and an indirect impact on demand and so forth', making it a critical factor for both production logistics and broader market dynamics; he further stated the company must assess 'to what extent we can offset that and want to offset that'.

Barry Callebaut Warns of El Niño Impact on Cocoa Prices and Fuel Costs

Jun 2, 2026

Barry Callebaut CEO warns El Niño could drive up cocoa bean prices due to crop yield risks in West Africa and Ecuador. Meanwhile, Middle East conflicts are expected to significantly increase fuel costs for next year's operations.

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Barry Callebaut Warns of El Niño Impact on Cocoa Prices and Fuel Costs

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