For those who love chocolate, there may be some disappointing news: the price of chocolate may increase! The main driver of this price increase is the recent surge in the price of cocoa, a key ingredient in chocolate, to a 12-year high. According to the latest Russian news reports, the reduction in global cocoa supply has sent its price up to $3,552 a tonne and briefly peaked at $3,569 a tonne, the highest since March 2011.

The cocoa tree is a tropical plant whose fruit contains cocoa beans, the basic ingredient for chocolate making. Cocoa is mainly produced in West Africa, but production in the region is in danger of declining. Industry experts explained that frequent extreme weather this year and rising fertilizer prices caused by tensions between Russia and Ukraine have reduced the use of fertilizers by farmers in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana, further affecting the production of these two global cocoa powerhouses. In addition, West Africa may also be affected by the El Niño phenomenon, resulting in reduced rainfall and a severe dry season from November. Cocoa production in Côte d'Ivoire is forecast to drop by 20 percent this year, and production in Ghana will also be below historical averages.

The world's leading chocolate makers such as Lindt and Hershey Foods have indicated further price increases due to reduced cocoa production and higher prices. For chocolate lovers, this is undoubtedly an extra expense. But there are some positives: Chocolate is not only a delicious sweet treat, but also contains a variety of health benefits, which can improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, relieve depression, enhance memory and more. Of course, chocolate is wise to eat in moderation due to its high calorie, fat and sugar content.

Overall, the rise in chocolate prices may be an unpleasant but inevitable fact, reflecting the wider impact of changes in global climate and market supply and demand on the agricultural commodity and food processing industries. As consumers, we should treat this reality rationally, while enjoying the deliciousness and fun of chocolate, we also need to pay attention to controlling intake and maintaining good health. After all, although chocolate is tempting, health is always the most important thing!