Among the gifts, decorations and delicacies on the table, price increases could increase the cost of the traditional Christmas dinner and simple breakfast at the bar, without however dampening the festive atmosphere. If the magic of the holidays remains unchanged, your pocket could suffer.
A precious cup
The cup of coffee, one of the most beloved rituals of Italians, has seen a surge in prices that could even reach 2 euros at the bar. It is not just a simple daily pleasure: coffee, in fact, is experiencing a period of increases due to global climatic and economic factors. Forecasts speak of poorer harvests, especially in Brazil, the main producer of arabica coffee. Due to a devastating drought in key growing areas, production estimates for 2025/26 have been drastically reduced. This, combined with problems also in Vietnam – the robusta coffee giant – is pushing prices higher. Added to this are the uncertainties linked to the phenomenon El Niñowhich is affecting crops in Latin America, with effects also on Colombia, another important producer of arabica.
If you think coffee can’t get more expensive, get ready for a small increase: espresso cups at the bar could take a toll on your wallet during the holidays. But don’t worry, the pleasure of a good coffee will certainly not lose its charm, even if it will be a little more expensive! Of course, stopping at the bar to eat a dark chocolate or drink a hot chocolate is about to become a luxury. Cocoa prices rise by around 5% and are close to 10 thousand dollars per ton reaching a high since the end of August. The price rally was triggered by the announcement that drought in West Africa could damage the April harvest. Drought could therefore reduce production in the medium term, leading to a possible cocoa shortage. Global inventories, which continue to decline, are another bullish factor
Dinner
Christmas dinner could also see a surge in costs. The global food price situation, which recorded an increase of 0.5% in November compared to the previous month, is driving up the costs of products such as dairy products and vegetable oils. While grain prices have fallen, thanks to a good harvest underway in the southern hemisphere, increases in butter, cheese and oils are being felt. This also translates into an increase in prices for typical Christmas dishes: from tortellini with butter to salads dressed with olive oil, each ingredient could be more expensive than imagined.
And that’s not all. Palm oil, soya and sunflower, essential for the preparation of many Christmas desserts, have seen a significant increase, also pushing up the cost of panettone, pandoro and biscuits. But not just desserts! Oil and cheeses, now protagonists on Italian tables, could affect the final cost of the meal.
But the magic doesn’t stop
Of course, price increases might make us think, but the magic of Christmas remains unchanged. Despite some economic uncertainty and higher prices, the holidays do not lose their charm. A coffee, perhaps more expensive, with friends at the bar, or the traditional family dinner, will still be moments of joy and sharing. Despite the wallet, the heart will always be full.
Yes, maybe Christmas 2024 will be a little more expensive, but with a smile and a little creativity, we can face it with the right spirit. With a good coffee and a plate of pasta, no difficulty can ruin the festive atmosphere!
