India Chocolate Market Outlook of 2028

India Chocolate Market Overview

• In 2023, the India Chocolate Market was valued at USD 1.97 billion, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.07% from 2018 to 2023. This substantial growth can be attributed to several key drivers, including growing preference for premium and dark chocolates, and expanding distribution channels across the country.
• The Indian chocolate market is dominated by several players including Mondelez India Foods Pvt. Ltd. (Cadbury), Nestle India Limited, Ferrero India Pvt. Ltd., Mars International India Pvt. Ltd. and Amul (GCMMF). These companies continuously invest in marketing strategies and product innovations to maintain their market position and cater to evolving consumer tastes.
• In recent news, Mondelez India announced the launch of a new premium chocolate range in 2023. The company introduced Cadbury Silk Mousse, a first-of-its-kind product in the Indian market, which combines rich chocolate with a creamy mousse filling. This launch aims to capture the growing demand for premium and innovative chocolate products among Indian consumers.

India Chocolate Current Market Analysis

• The expansion of organized retail in India has significantly impacted the chocolate market. In 2024, the number of organized retail outlets reached 30,000, compared to 20,000 in 2018. This increase has provided greater accessibility and visibility for chocolate products across the country. Organized retail chains like Big Bazaar, Reliance Fresh, and DMart have dedicated sections for confectionery, making it easier for consumers to discover and purchase a variety of chocolate brands.
• The growth of the Indian chocolate market has had a substantial impact on the food and beverage industry. It has encouraged innovation in product offerings, packaging, and marketing strategies. Additionally, the market has provided opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enter the chocolate manufacturing and distribution space, fostering competition and diversity in the market.
• The Indian chocolate market is particularly dominated by the Western region, accounting for the largest market share. Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa are major contributors due to their high population density, higher income levels, and a strong presence of retail outlets.

India Chocolate Market Segmentations

The India Chocolate Market be segmented based on various factors. Here are three key segmentation types with their sub-segments and estimated market share ranges:

By Product Type: In 2023, the India Chocolate Market is segmented by product type into milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate and others. Milk chocolate is the dominant segment because it caters to a broad demographic, appealing to both children and adults due to its sweet and creamy taste. Its versatility in gifting and daily consumption further boosts its popularity.

By Distribution Channel: In 2023, the India Chocolate Market is segmented by distribution channel into supermarkets, convenience stores, online retail and specialty stores. Supermarkets dominate as the primary distribution channel because they offer a wide variety of products, frequent promotions, and the convenience of a one-stop shopping experience, appealing to a broad consumer base.

By End- User: In 2023, the India Chocolate Market is segmented by end- user into individual consumers, food service industry and corporate sector. Individual consumers form the largest segment in the Indian chocolate market, driven by a growing culture of gifting, personal indulgence, and special occasions like festivals and birthdays.

India Chocolate Market Competitive Landscape

• Mondelez India Foods Pvt. Ltd. (Cadbury): Cadbury dominates the Indian chocolate market with its strong brand equity and extensive product range. The company's innovative products, such as the launch of Cadbury Silk Mousse in 2023, and aggressive marketing strategies have significantly contributed to market growth.
• Nestle India Limited: Nestle India maintains a substantial market presence with popular brands like KitKat and Munch. The company's focus on product quality and consumer health, coupled with a significant investment of INR 700 crore in 2022 to expand its manufacturing capacity, has helped it retain a strong market position.
• Ferrero India Pvt. Ltd. and Mars International India Pvt. Ltd.: Ferrero has impacted the market with premium products like Ferrero Rocher and Kinder Joy, emphasizing premiumization and unique offerings. Similarly, Mars, known for brands like Snickers and Galaxy, has captured a considerable market share through its commitment to quality and innovation. Ferrero's introduction of sugar-free and organic options in 2023 highlights the trend towards health-conscious products.

India Chocolate Market Industry Analysis

India Chocolate Market Growth Drivers:

• E-commerce Growth: The rise of e-commerce has played a crucial role in driving the growth of the Indian chocolate market. In 2024, the e-commerce sector in India recorded sales of 12 million chocolate products, up from 7 million in 2018. Online platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and BigBasket have made it convenient for consumers to purchase chocolates from the comfort of their homes.
• Increased Consumer Awareness of Premium Products: There has been a noticeable shift in consumer preferences towards premium and artisanal chocolates. In 2024, sales of premium chocolate brands increased by 4 Mn units, reflecting a growing awareness and demand for higher quality and unique flavors. Brands like Lindt, Godiva, and Royce have seen a surge in popularity, particularly among urban consumers who are willing to pay a premium for superior taste and quality.
• Growth of Gifting Culture: The tradition of gifting chocolates during festivals and special occasions has significantly boosted the chocolate market in India. In 2024, 6 million gift packs of chocolates were sold during the Diwali season alone. This cultural trend extends to other occasions such as Valentine's Day, Raksha Bandhan, and Christmas, where chocolates are favored as gifts.

India Chocolate Market Challenges

• Fluctuating Cocoa Prices: The Indian chocolate market faces significant challenges due to fluctuating cocoa prices. This volatility in raw material costs directly impacts the pricing and profitability of chocolate manufacturers. Companies are compelled to adjust their pricing strategies frequently, which can lead to consumer dissatisfaction and reduced demand.
• Competition from Local Confectionery: Local confectionery products pose a considerable challenge to the growth of the chocolate market in India. Traditional sweets such as mithai, ladoo, and barfi remain popular choices among Indian consumers, particularly during festivals and celebrations. The deep-rooted cultural preference for traditional sweets, coupled with their lower price points, presents a formidable competition to the chocolate industry.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Supply chain disruptions, particularly in the transportation and logistics sectors, continue to be a challenge for the Indian chocolate market. During 2024, it is observed that logistics costs have increased, affecting the timely delivery of raw materials and finished products. These disruptions can lead to inventory shortages, increased operational costs, and potential delays in product launches and distribution.

India Chocolate Market Government Initiatives

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Regulations: In 2024, new guidelines were introduced to limit the permissible levels of contaminants in chocolates. The FSSAI has mandated clear labeling requirements for chocolates containing vegetable fats, requiring a prominent declaration stating "CONTAINS VEGETABLE FAT IN ADDITION TO COCOA BUTTER". These regulations help maintain high standards and build consumer trust in domestic chocolate brands.
• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (2017): This initiative aims to create modern infrastructure for the food processing sector, including chocolates. By the end of 2024, it has facilitated the establishment of 200 new food processing units, enhancing the capacity for chocolate manufacturing and reducing post-harvest losses.

India Chocolate Market Future Outlook

By 2028, the Indian chocolate market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by factors such as increasing consumer spending, expanding urban population, and rising demand for premium and health-oriented chocolate products.

Future Market Trends

• Health and Wellness: The increasing health consciousness among consumers is driving the demand for healthier chocolate options, such as dark chocolate, sugar-free, and organic variants. By 2024, the market is expected to see a significant increase in the sales of dark chocolates, reaching 35 million units, and sugar-free chocolates at 10 million units. To cater to this segment, manufacturers are focusing on product innovation, introducing chocolates with added health benefits like probiotics, vitamins, and minerals.
• Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing: There is a growing awareness about sustainability and the ethical sourcing of raw materials. By 2024, it is anticipated that 40 million units of chocolates will be produced using sustainably sourced cocoa, and 50 million units will be sold in eco-friendly packaging. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchases, prompting companies to adopt sustainable practices.