In this thesis, the chocolate market is analysed, with a specific focus on the Italian context, using data from the AIDA database and official statistical sources. The first chapter reconstructs the history and origins of chocolate, describes the production process from cocoa beans to the final product, and examines the geography of cocoa cultivation and processing. In particular, it highlights how cocoa cultivation is predominantly concentrated in countries along the equatorial belt, characterised by favourable climatic conditions, while industrial processing takes place mainly in more developed countries, where the main processing companies are located. A further aspect addressed concerns the spread of fair trade programmes and certification schemes, aimed at promoting greater economic and social sustainability along the supply chain.