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Here’s why Valentine’s Day might be harder on your wallet this year

Trump drops Europe tariffs threat over Greenland after Nato talks at Davos

Valentine's Day chocolate prices in the US have risen significantly, with boxed assortments up 11.8 percent on average, despite a recent sharp drop in global cocoa prices.
Major chocolate makers, such as Mondelez and Hershey, hedge their cocoa purchases months in advance, meaning they are still paying for cocoa acquired at previously record-high rates.
This lag prevents current savings from falling cocoa prices from being passed on to consumers immediately, with relief potentially not seen until future seasons, possibly by 2027.
Trade policies, including tariffs implemented by the Trump administration, have also contributed to increased costs for some chocolate manufacturers, particularly impacting imported brands.
Despite the higher prices, consumer demand for chocolate remains robust, with Valentine's Day spending projected to increase, indicating strong market resilience.