"Ivory Coast Turmoil to Shoot Up Chocolate Prices"

JEDDAH, 11 November 2004 - It is doubtful that many Saudis shopping for chocolate in preparation for Eid are concerned about the turmoil in Ivory Coast, the world's largest producer of cocoa. The deadly violence in Ivory Coast, which erupted Saturday, has shut down cocoa exports and closed ports that ship more than 40 percent of the world's raw material for chocolate.

If the turmoil continues however, chocolate lovers here will probably feel the effect on prices soon, not that the prices have not increased already because of Eid.

Although they deny it, some chocolate store owners raise their prices as Ramadan comes to an end knowing that Eid is the peak of their sales.

"They take advantage of people buying chocolate for Eid and jack up the prices but not too much because of the competition; there are so many stores now," said Maha Jifri. "Still, when you're short on time and desperate to finish shopping Eid clothes and gifts, you'll buy from whatever chocolate store you come across as long as it is good and has nice chocolate trays," she added.

Full Article : arabnews.com