Easter Eggs and Chocolate Prices Going Ever Higher

14th April 2025

Chocolate is experiencing a surge in price due to a global cocoa shortage, primarily caused by adverse weather conditions and diseases affecting cocoa production in West Africa, particularly in Ghana and Ivory Coast.

Climate change is exacerbating these issues with extreme weather patterns and the spread of diseases like swollen shoot virus and black pod disease.

Poor Cocoa Production:
A combination of factors has led to significantly lower cocoa yields in West Africa, the world's largest producer of cocoa beans.

Climate Change:
Changing climate patterns, including extreme weather events like El Niño, are impacting cocoa growing regions, leading to drier and hotter conditions, which are detrimental to cocoa trees.

Disease Outbreaks:
Diseases like swollen shoot virus and black pod disease have spread rapidly, damaging cocoa crops and reducing yields.
Supply Chain Disruption.

The shortage of cocoa has disrupted the global supply chain, leading to higher prices for cocoa beans and subsequently, chocolate products.

Increased Costs for Farmers:
Rising costs of pesticides and fertilizers have made it difficult for cocoa farmers to afford them, further impacting yields.

Global Demand:
Despite the drop in production, demand for chocolate remains high, further pushing up prices.