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Halloween Candy Prices Surge 10.8% Amid Supply Issues

10/31/2025

36 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Candy Prices Surge

Halloween candy prices rose 10.8% this year, with a 100-piece bag costing $16.39, up from last year's $14.06.
Factors include weakened cocoa harvests and tariffs on cocoa imports from West Africa, which supplies 70% of cocoa.
Americans are expected to spend $13.1 billion on Halloween in 2025, including $3.9 billion on candy.
Consumers may notice smaller product sizes and changes in candy formulations as companies adapt to rising costs.

Summary

Candy Cost Crisis

Halloween candy prices have risen 78% over the past five years, driven by high cocoa costs and tariffs.
In Sacramento, Hershey’s Kisses have risen 69% since 2020.
Many residents are buying smaller candy bags to manage costs.
Experts attribute the price rise to poor harvests in the Ivory Coast and tariffs on Ghanaian imports.
Shrinkflation has led to reduced product sizes this Halloween.

History

Historical Context

In 2018, the U.S. imposed tariffs on cocoa imports, affecting candy prices as cocoa from Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana supplies 70% of U.S. consumption. Following a 20% drop in global cocoa prices in 2017, the Côte d'Ivoire–Ghana Cocoa Initiative was established to stabilize farmer revenues. By 2023, rising cocoa prices have led consumers to buy smaller candy bags, reflecting economic pressures.

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Candy Prices Surge

Halloween candy prices rose 10.8% this year, with a 100-piece bag costing $16.39, up from last year's $14.06.
Factors include weakened cocoa harvests and tariffs on cocoa imports from West Africa, which supplies 70% of cocoa.
Americans are expected to spend $13.1 billion on Halloween in 2025, including $3.9 billion on candy.
Consumers may notice smaller product sizes and changes in candy formulations as companies adapt to rising costs.

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