Dubai chocolate craze causes major pistachio price hike

The rise in popularity of Dubai chocolate, a dessert originating from the United Arab Emirates, has sparked concerns over a worldwide pistachio shortage. Since its viral trend on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, the demand for the chocolate filled with pistachio cream has surged, leading to increased prices globally. Industry experts have observed that the U.S., which is the leading exporter of pistachios, has faced declining stocks due to a disappointing harvest last year, causing prices to rise significantly. Giles Hacking of CG Hacking, a London-based nut trader, noted that in the past year, the price of pistachios has jumped from $7.65 per pound to $10.30 per pound. He emphasized that the pistachio market is nearly at its capacity, with a reported 20% decline in California's pistachio supply leading up to early 2025. High quality of the remaining pistachios has further driven prices up, affecting market dynamics. Additionally, the global pistachio supply has been influenced by increased exports from Iran, the world’s second-largest producer. Reports indicate that from September 2024 to March 2025, Iran exported 40% more pistachios to the UAE compared to the previous year. Experts also pointed to the sudden spike in demand stemming from the growing popularity of Dubai chocolate, which gained traction after its launch, creating a ripple effect across the market. As the trend continues, various culinary establishments have introduced their own interpretations of Dubai chocolate, which has further fueled consumer interest. Social media platforms remain crucial for spreading trends, and as influencers share and promote such products, the public's craving inevitably increases, leading to further strain on the availability of essential ingredients like pistachios.