Why is chocolate grown in hot countries?

Chocolate is grown in hot countries because the cacao tree, which produces the beans used to make chocolate, thrives in tropical climates.

Here's why:

* Temperature: Cacao trees need consistently warm temperatures, ideally between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit (21-29 degrees Celsius).

* Rainfall: They require significant rainfall, about 60-80 inches per year, to flourish.

* Humidity: High humidity is also crucial for their growth.

* Sunlight: Cacao trees need shade, but they also require a certain amount of sunlight to produce fruits. They typically grow under the canopy of taller trees.

These conditions are found in tropical regions around the world, which is why most chocolate production occurs in countries near the equator, such as:

* West Africa: Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria

* South America: Ecuador, Brazil, Peru

* Southeast Asia: Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam

While there have been efforts to grow cacao in other regions, the tropical climate is essential for optimal growth and production of high-quality beans.