German confectionery companies experienced a 2.1% decrease in cocoa grinding figures in the fourth quarter of 2023, with grindings for the entire year down by 1.2%. The European Cocoa Organization also reported a 2.5% decrease in cocoa grindings during the same quarter. In addition to challenges in the cocoa market, Germany is also facing difficulties sourcing sugar, as the EU's protective policies are limiting fair competition from outside and the region is now a net importer of sugar.