The Real Cost of Craft: Tariffs, Cacao & the Future of Chocolate

If your favorite chocolate bars are getting more expensive, it’s not your imagination. Global supply issues and new trade policies are driving up the cost of high-quality chocolate — especially for small-batch, bean-to-bar makers.

Cacao Prices Are at Record Highs

Over 60% of the world’s cacao comes from West Africa. In the past year, poor weather, crop disease, and aging trees have caused major harvest declines, pushing cacao prices to record highs. These increases hit small craft makers hardest, as they rely on ethically sourced, high-quality beans and can't simply cut corners to offset rising costs.

U.S. Tariffs Are Adding Pressure

In June 2024, the U.S. announced increased tariffs on a range of European and Latin American imports, including certain chocolate and confectionery products. These tariffs, which took effect in July 2024, add new costs for importers and distributors of bean-to-bar chocolate. Combined with rising freight rates and customs delays, getting quality chocolate into the U.S. has become significantly more expensive.

Why It Matters

Craft chocolate is built on transparency, sustainability, and flavor — not mass production. Rising costs don’t mean more profit for makers; they mean working harder to keep quality high while staying viable. Supporting these bars helps preserve ethical sourcing and exceptional chocolate at a time when it’s under real pressure.