Cargill, Voyage Foods will make cocoa-free confectionery range.

Moskow also emphasizes company’s strengths.

Company also said it will expand other facilities.

Ralf Hilpuesch will oversee company’s United States operations. 

Analysts expect higher prices and deeper global deficits for the cocoa industry.

Data shows cocoa prices are 65% higher than they were just a year ago. 

Companies train farmers to help improve yields while working toward good stewardship of natural resources.

Cocoa producers are taking notice as consumers are interested in environment, fair treatment of farmers.

Cocoa bean production in the Ivory Coast in the 2023-24 season is forecast down about 25% from the prior year.

Global deficits and soaring prices stir concern in the confectionery industry.