Romania's chocolate exports are worth EUR 175 million annually, in a market with around 250 manufacturing companies, according to data released at the 7th edition of the Chocolate Saga event.
The volume of chocolate exports has increased by 65% in just four years - from 105.8 million tonnes in 2020 to 175 million tonnes in 2024 - placing Romania among the leading regional producers. With an average annual growth rate of 12.9%, the country is now a competitive supplier in Central and Eastern Europe, with its main export markets being Hungary, Bulgaria, Poland and Germany, shows a press release from the event's organisers.
Meanwhile, domestic consumption has surpassed the symbolic threshold of 35,000 tonnes per year.
"The market also shows solid growth domestically. The average monthly consumption per person rose from 2.16 kg in 2023 to 2.26 kg in 2024 and 2.36 kg in the first quarter of 2025 - an increase of more than 9% in less than two years. Estimates suggest that by the end of this year, the domestic market could exceed 35,000 tonnes. More and more Romanians are opting for artisanal products with controlled origin and clean recipes. The premium segment, which already accounts for over 15% of the total market value, continues to grow, driven by a demand for authentic taste and quality," explained Adina Istrate, organiser of Chocolate Saga 2025, as quoted in the press release.
Data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS) also shows that domestic chocolate production has steadily increased in recent years - from 14,155 tonnes in 2020 to a peak of 15,461 tonnes in 2023, a rise of 9.2% over four years. "Although a slight adjustment is expected for 2024, down to 14,441 tonnes, the average annual growth rate remains robust at around 2.2%, despite global cocoa bean prices reaching historic highs," specifies the cited source.
Interest in artisanal and premium chocolate continues to grow, already accounting for over 15% of the market's total value.
"The Romanian market is estimated at over EUR 300 million, which shows its huge growth potential - particularly in the premium segment, which already exceeds 15% of the total. Romanian consumers are increasingly seeking responsibly made, authentic-origin chocolate. Chocolate Saga is not only a celebration of taste but also a platform dedicated to supporting local artisans, enhancing visibility and promoting Romanian-made chocolate," Istrate added.
With over 250 active companies in the chocolate and confectionery sector - 70 to 80 of which are dedicated exclusively to chocolate manufacturing - Romania has all the conditions to strengthen its position as a regional hub in Eastern Europe, experts believe.
The 7th edition of Chocolate Saga is taking place from 24 to 26 October at the National Library of Romania, on Splaiul Independentei in Bucharest. The exhibition and sales fair will be open until Sunday at 6 p.m.
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