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Chocolate confectionery market in India one of the fastest-growing
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Tuesday, 07 October, 2025, 15 : 00 PM [IST]
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Dr Manmath D. Sontakke
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Chocolate is a favoured treat enjoyed globally by people of every age group because of its delicious flavour, nutritional benefits, and its role in psychology and society. It is a widely consumed item across all ages. Chocolate serves as an effective carrier of nutrients due to its appealing taste, making it a popular choice among individuals worldwide. It is typically a sweet, brown food made from cacao seeds that have been roasted and ground. It comes in various forms such as a liquid, paste, block, or as an additive in other dishes.
Chocolate has become one of the most popular food types and flavours in the world, numerous sweet treats and candies containing or being wrapped in chocolate, and blocks of solid chocolate and candy bars covered in chocolate enjoyed as bite-sized snacks.
There are several types of chocolate, classified according to the proportion of cocoa used in a particular formulation.
People's love for chocolate has grown rapidly with the transition away from traditional sweets and toward chocolate gifts, year-round ice cream consumption of baked goods, and premium chocolate products.
Chocolate trends have owing to driven an average annual growth of 13–14% in the domestic market, making Indian chocolate market growing at the fastest rate in the world. Considering consumers' desire for distinctive flavours, tastes, and textures, India's per capita consumption of chocolate is low when compared to other global markets. There is indeed a great chance for development of chocolate industry.
Scenario of Indian chocolate industry
The Indian chocolate market is undergoing a sweet revolution and is expected to grow at a strong compound annual growth rate of 11.5% from 2021 to 2027, when it reaches a staggering US$4.24 billion. The deliberate efforts of foreign chocolate makers, who are increasingly focusing on rural India, are credited with this remarkable rise. The chocolate confectionery market in India, valued at US$1.98 billion in 2020, is now globally recognised as one of the fastest-growing chocolate markets.
The India chocolate market size was estimated at US$2.31 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach US$3.58 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.58% during the forecast period (2024-2030). The surge in demand and consumption of chocolates in the Indian market can be attributed to several factors, including a shift in consumer preferences away from traditional sweet indulgences, an increase in disposable income, rising expectations for premium products, and increased awareness of health concerns. Some 70.67% of the fairly consolidated Indian chocolate market is held by the top companies.
With a variety of sizes, shapes, and patterns, chocolate brands in India cater to diverse preferences. Top players like Ferrero International, Mondelez International, Nestle, Hersheys are making chocolates accessible to a broad demographic. The young generation and children significantly contribute to the thriving chocolate-gifting tradition. Other factors propelling demand for chocolate include the influence of Westernisation and adoption of a casual and fun lifestyle.
Trends in chocolate industry The chocolate industry is constantly evolving and is influenced by changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global economic shifts. The recent trends in the Indian chocolate market showcase an inclusion of natural flavours like cinnamon, jasmine, chilli, and cardamom, along with the rise of dark chocolate.
Increasing health awareness among consumers is driving the demand for premium and dark chocolate products. Chocolate manufacturers are reacting to this demand by supplying organic, vegan, probiotic, sugar-free, and gluten-free chocolates. Dark chocolate, with its associated health benefits, is expected to witness the greatest market share growth of 9% all over the forecast time frame.
Smaller pack sizes and bite-sized portions are becoming more popular among consumers, showing a greater awareness of portion control and health. Even during economic downturns or recessions, the spontaneous buying of chocolate during moments of joy and happiness stays unchanged.
The Indian chocolate market is experiencing a significant rise in the popularity of high-quality and healthy chocolates. The growing trend of 'clean eating' in the country complements the consumption of premium chocolates, which are seen as guilt-free treats.
Considering health implications involves more than just examining chocolate ingredients; it also requires assessing the packaging. Advanced nanofabrication techniques are being employed to produce active materials in packaging, ensuring that the taste, nutritional value, and safety of chocolates remain intact while also extending their shelf life.
Low sugar and sugar free
The trend of consumers seeking healthier chocolates is resulting in a higher demand for those with more cocoa and less sugar. Dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants and associated with various health benefits, is gaining popularity. Those with diabetes and those who value their health can also enjoy chocolate that is low in sugar.
Functional chocolate
It has become increasingly common to include functional ingredients like probiotics, dietary fibres, vitamins, minerals and superfoods such as quinoa, chica seeds in their diet. Chocolate products are enriched with these ingredients, which can be combined with traditional sweets to provide health benefits.
Vegan Chocolates
Demand for non-dairy chocolate has increased, as people switch to vegan and plant based eating patterns, the demand for non-dairy chocolate is on the rise. Industries are developing vegan chocolate using alternatives such as almond milk, coconut milk and oat milk. This pattern corresponds with wider dietary shifts towards sustainable practices and plant-based nutrition.
Sustainable Packaging
The increasing awareness of the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging is driving this trend. Many Indian companies are offering eco-friendly food packaging solutions, signalling a shift towards sustainable options in the long term.
Companies that manufacture chocolate are embracing packaging solutions with eco-conscious practices to minimise their environmental impact. This includes biodegradable, compostable and recyclable materials. Minimalist packaging designs that minimise waste and non-plastic materials are also backed by this.
3D Printing
Chocolate manufacturers are embracing the latest 3D printing technology, which allows for the production of highly intricate and customisable chocolate designs. This technology enables industries to manufacture custom chocolates with distinctive shapes and finishing touches that appeal to consumers seeking personalised products.
Flavour Innovations
The demand for exotic and unusual chocolate flavours is increasing due to consumers seeking out the most adventurous taste experiences. A variety of options is gaining popularity, including matcha, chili, sea salt, lavender, and ev6en delectable bacon-filled chocolates. A limited selection of flavours and partnerships with food artisans are also driving this trend.
Artisanal Chocolates
There is a growing market for craft and artisanal chocolates, made in small batches using quality ingredients and traditional methods are a growing market. These chocolates often emphasise the origin of the cocoa beans and the craftsmanship involved in their preparation. Artisan chocolatiers experiment with unique flavour profiles and create visually stunning products that appeal to connoisseurs.
The chocolate sector is undergoing significant transformation, driven by health-awareness, food choices, sustainability, technological advancement, and a desire for unique products. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the industry have exciting developments and trends in the coming years.
(The author is assistant professor, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, MGM University, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. He can be contacted at ms.mgmcft@gmail.com)
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