Story perspectives

Cocoa Shortage Doubles Halloween Candy Prices This Year

10/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

Cocoa prices are significantly impacting Halloween candy this year, with costs nearly double compared to early 2024.
A Wells Fargo report says U.S. consumers will face high chocolate prices due to a global cocoa shortage caused by extreme weather in West Africa.
Cocoa futures have fallen for eight consecutive weeks, reflecting changing market dynamics.
Manufacturers are reducing product sizes and some are exploring sourcing from Latin America to mitigate risks.

History

Historical Context

In 2016, a severe drought in West Africa caused a 30% decline in cocoa production, pushing prices to $3,000 per metric ton. This crisis, primarily affecting Ghana and Ivory Coast—responsible for 60% of global cocoa—echoes today's challenges, as extreme weather continues to threaten supply chains and force manufacturers to reconsider sourcing strategies, potentially shifting towards Latin America for stability.

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Story summary

Cocoa prices are significantly impacting Halloween candy this year, with costs nearly double compared to early 2024.
A Wells Fargo report says U.S. consumers will face high chocolate prices due to a global cocoa shortage caused by extreme weather in West Africa.
Cocoa futures have fallen for eight consecutive weeks, reflecting changing market dynamics.
Manufacturers are reducing product sizes and some are exploring sourcing from Latin America to mitigate risks.

1 / 2