In 2024, the prices of chocolate-coated almonds generally moved upward in the global markets. During the first half of the year, almond prices stayed mostly range-bound, with limited changes in exports and trade activity. Spain, a key supplier, saw mixed export performance, with shipments rising to some countries and falling to others, keeping overall almond availability steady but limited. When the new harvest arrived in the second half of the year, prices briefly softened due to the higher supply. However, strong domestic and international demand, especially from festive and wedding seasons, quickly pushed prices upward again.
Cocoa, a key ingredient in chocolate coatings, also influenced prices. Global cocoa supply remained tight due to poor harvests in West Africa, aging trees, plant diseases, and adverse weather conditions such as El Niño. Rising cocoa costs increased production expenses for chocolate-coated products, supporting higher retail prices. Combined with limited almond supply and higher demand, these factors maintained a generally bullish trend for chocolate-coated almonds throughout 2024.