Homegrown chocolatiers hope to win over India’s sweet-toothed consumers

India's premium chocolate makers are turning to locally sourced cocoa and flavors to meet the demands of Indian consumers, who are increasingly seeking out authentic flavors. In response to global cocoa supply volatility and an expanding market, homegrown chocolatiers are experimenting with Indian-grown cocoa and flavors tailored to local tastes.

Mumbai-based Subko Cacao, for example, is transforming cocoa beans grown in southern India into craft chocolate bars, aiming to show that Indian chocolate can hold its own against Western brands. The Indian chocolate market is projected to grow from US$3.05 billion in 2023 to US$5.62 billion by 2034, driven by rising disposable incomes and an expanding consumer palate.

While Western brands still dominate the market, several Indian chocolate makers have emerged, such as SMOOR, which sources some of its cocoa from India. Despite the higher cost, Indian cocoa offers chocolatiers greater control over quality and supply, with SMOOR expecting to use 40% Indian-grown cocoa in its products by 2034. Chocolate makers are also experimenting with flavors like coconut and lime to appeal to Indian consumers, preparing special offerings for festive seasons like Diwali and Christmas.

While India is a relative newcomer to cocoa cultivation, compared to countries like Cote d'Ivoire and Ghana, the industry is focused on building a reputation for Indian chocolate in its own right.