Americans traditionally enjoy chocolate as part of their Easter celebrations, with chocolate bunnies, eggs, and bars being popular choices. However, rising cocoa costs are set to drive up chocolate candy prices this year, further exacerbated by Donald Trump’s tariffs on imports. The National Confectioners Association reveals that Americans spend billions on sweets during key candy seasons, including Easter, where $5.4bn was spent last year. The escalating price of cocoa, driven by climate-related crises affecting west African farmers who produce 70% of the world’s cocoa, has led to a significant cocoa deficit and inflated prices.

Major chocolate producer Hershey raised prices last year due to the cocoa cost surge, resulting in its worst profit in seven years. Chocolate, being a unique grocery item without substitutes, faces challenges with price increases, unlike other commodities like eggs. Trump’s tariffs are expected to further elevate chocolate prices, with economists estimating a 3% average price increase across goods. The impossibility of shifting chocolate manufacturing to the US due to cocoa’s tropical climate requirements poses a dilemma for chocolate makers. Smaller businesses are especially vulnerable to the unstable environment created by tariffs, facing challenges with cocoa prices, inflation in manufacturing processes, packaging costs, and shipping expenses.

The uncertain future of chocolate prices has already impacted businesses like Dandelion Chocolate, leading some to go out of business due to pricing turmoil. As the industry navigates these challenges, smaller chocolate manufacturers face the daunting task of planning amidst the unpredictable market conditions.