Romania's chocolate market exceeds 300 million euros, with annual consumption reaching about 35,000 tonnes, as Romanians are eating more chocolate but becoming more selective, increasingly opting for premium, local products and gastronomic experiences, according to industry data.
Average chocolate consumption has risen steadily in recent years, from 2.16 kilograms per person in 2023 to 2.26 kilograms in 2024 and 2.36 kilograms in 2025, representing an increase of about 9% in just two years.
However, consumption remains significantly below the European average, which exceeds 7 kilograms per person annually, indicating strong growth potential for the local market.
At the same time, consumption trends have evolved amid a slowdown in food retail. In 2025, retail sales declined by around 2% compared with the previous year, yet chocolate consumption continued to grow.
According to specialists, the phenomenon is explained by the trend of "selective premiumisation", whereby consumers buy smaller quantities but are willing to pay more for premium or experiential products.
"Valrhona is the reference brand for the world's top pastry chefs and Michelin-starred chefs. It was founded exclusively for professionals. It represents exactly 1% of global chocolate production, so it will never be mass-market chocolate. Starting this year, Valrhona has returned to its parent group Savencia and will become increasingly visible in the field of chef education. Because the Romanian market is absolutely extraordinary, we are committed to supporting Romania's chef communities in any way needed," Simona Borascu, Foodservice Marketing Manager at Valrhona was quoted as saying in the release.
According to a regional study on trends in the chocolate industry, 88% of consumers seek products that reflect cultural identity or local heritage, 84% appreciate products associated with special moments or gastronomic experiences, and 49% prefer products with short ingredient lists.
At the same time, between 41% and 47% of consumers are attracted to innovative flavour combinations and sensory experiences.
"Romania is becoming increasingly visible on the international map of artisanal chocolate. Romanian chocolatiers are winning more and more awards in international competitions, and the local market is steadily evolving. Moreover, some chocolate brands were even launched during Chocolate Saga," said Adina Istrate, organiser of Chocolate Saga.
Chocolate Saga, considered the largest event in Romania dedicated exclusively to the world of chocolate, takes place between March 13 and 15 at the National Library of Romania in Bucharest.
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