Jammu, April 8 -- Chocolate lovers, brace yourselves for higher prices as cocoa rates have shot through the roof in recent times. Leading brands indicate price hikes are inevitable with input costs rising manifold. Will consumers be able to indulge their sweet cravings at the same rates going forward?

Chocolate lovers, your expensive habit may be set for a jolt. Cocoa rates have witnessed a staggering surge globally threatening to make your favorite treats costlier. India's leading chocolate manufacturer Amul has warned prices could rise by 10-20% while ice cream major Baskin Robbins is assessing costs having seen an uptick of 70-80%.

The root cause is simple - cocoa, the primary ingredient, has turned bitter for buyers. Rates have near...