Q. Which of the following countries are well known as the two largest cocoa producers in the world?
(a) Algeria and Morocco
(b) Botswana and Namibia
(c) Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana
(d) Madagascar and Mozambique
Correct answer: (c) Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation :
1. Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
– World’s largest cocoa producer
– Produces ~40% of global cocoa
– Ideal climate conditions: tropical with adequate rainfall
– Strong historical tradition of cocoa farming
2. Ghana
– World’s second-largest cocoa producer
– Produces ~20% of global cocoa
– Similar favorable climate conditions
– Quality of Ghanaian cocoa is highly regarded
3. Other options analysis:
– Algeria and Morocco: Too arid for cocoa production
– Botswana and Namibia: Predominantly desert climate
– Madagascar and Mozambique: Produce some cocoa but not major producers
Answer: (c) Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana