London, UK – From Easter eggs in the UK and Germany to refined gifting boxes in France and Switzerland, Europe continues to dominate the seasonal chocolate industry, accounting for half of the world’s top 10 seasonal chocolate markets by value, according to market intelligence company Euromonitor International.

Among those top markets, the fastest value growth in 2025 is being recorded in Switzerland (23%), Germany (18%) and France (18%). However, this surge is largely price-driven rather than demand-led, reflecting the impact of tariffs and the passthrough of high cocoa commodity costs. Outside of Europe, the US, Japan, Canada, Brazil and Australia appear on the ranking.

Meanwhile, the global seasonal chocolate market reached USD 16 billion globally in 2025, underlining the category’s enduring importance even as consumers become more price conscious.  According to Euromonitor International’s Voice of the Consumer: Lifestyle Survey, fielded January to February 2026, 29% of global consumers tend to eat snacks during the holidays, a figure that remains unchanged from 2025.

Carl Quash III, global insights manager for snacks at Euromonitor International, said: “Despite chocolates made with costly cocoa still in market and evolving geopolitical risks, like global conflicts and SNAP food restrictions, demand for seasonal chocolate is holding up better than others because of the strong emotional and tradition-driven value assigned to it.”

Retail takes the lead as supermarkets shape Easter chocolate innovation

Supermarket retailers have emerged as some of the most dynamic innovators in the seasonal chocolate space, with retailers such as Aldi, M&S, Waitrose and Costco driving growth through curated collections, limited-edition ranges and experience-led products that tap into consumer demand for novelty and shareability.

According to Quash: “Supermarkets are uniquely positioned in that they hold large consumer reach with real-time visibility into purchasing behaviour, emerging preferences and now more tapped into social media trends – even displaying visually striking ‘Dubai-style’ chocolates and other pistachio-infused creations for example. Unlike traditional retailers, supermarkets provide scale for testing limited editions, rotating seasonal offerings and fulfilling consumer affordability demands through private labels. Retailers are also evolving to quickly reposition brand identity and create in-store experiences that feel fresh, relevant and exclusive.”

Climate change and geopolitical tensions impact the market in the coming years

While seasonal chocolate continues to show strong global growth, the underlying story is less about rising consumption and more about rising costs. Value gains across key markets are being driven primarily by higher prices linked to the ongoing cocoa supply crisis, itself exacerbated by climate change and sharp harvest decline in major producing countries. At the same time, geopolitical tensions, including trade disruptions and tariffs on key inputs such as cocoa butter, sugar and dairy are adding further pressure to already strained supply chains.

Quash added: “Behind the headline growth in Easter chocolate lies a more complex reality. Climate-related disruptions to cocoa production, combined with geopolitical pressures on trade and inputs have pushed prices higher globally, meaning consumers are often paying more for less, even as the emotional importance of seasonal chocolate remains unchanged.”

Read more insights on Chocolate Confectionery at Euromonitor’s Insights Hub to explore how global trends, pricing pressures and innovation are shaping the future of seasonal chocolate.

Darjeeling is set to witness an evening steeped in India’s rich cultural heritage as Swaranjali Delhi presents Colours of India 2026 Darjeeling, a celebration of Indian classical vocal, instrumental music, and dance. The event is being organised in association with Hakimpara Nritya Malancha and Himalaya Kala Mandir.

Scheduled for April 15, 2026, the programme will take place at the Himalaya Kala Mandir, Donovan Park on Hill Cart Road, beginning at 5 PM onwards. The event aims to bring together renowned artists and emerging talents on one stage, offering audiences a vibrant glimpse into India’s diverse classical traditions.

The evening will feature performances by noted artists, including Smt Sangita Chaki, Shri Subrata De, Pt Subir Adhikary, Ms Roushni Sarkar, Ms Hrishita Das, and Ms Sampurna Biswas, along with disciples of Smt Iswari Chhettri. The event will be anchored by Smt Moumita Biswas.

Organisers say the initiative is part of an ongoing effort to promote and preserve Indian classical arts while creating platforms for both established performers and young disciples to showcase their talent.

Open to all art enthusiasts, the event invites audiences from Darjeeling and nearby regions to experience an enriching cultural evening.

For further details and RSVP, interested attendees can contact Swaranjali Delhi and NrityaMalancha Siliguri at 9910300319 or 9434006943, or visit www.swaranjali.org and www.nrityamalancha.com.

Shreyas Webmedia Solutions is the official media partner.

India’s relationship with crypto assets has never been simple, but what is unfolding inside Parliament reflects a shift beyond the usual debates around bans and permissions. The sessions running through 2025 and into early 2026 have taken on a more structured tone. Lawmakers are no longer focused on defining virtual digital assets; instead, discussions are increasingly centred on financial flows, compliance mechanisms, and the broader potential of the underlying technology for public use. This shift suggests that India’s crypto policy is becoming more structured and enforcement-oriented, while conversations continue around enabling innovation and participation.

One of the more notable data points to emerge from recent sessions is the state-wise breakdown of TDS collected on crypto transactions. The numbers indicate strong growth. Nationwide collections rose from roughly 221 crore rupees in 2022–23 to over 511 crore rupees by 2024–25. Maharashtra alone contributed 293.40 crore rupees of that latest figure, accounting for a significant share of the country’s crypto tax revenues. Karnataka also recorded substantial growth, increasing from just under 39 crore rupees to nearly 134 crore rupees during the same period.

The regional trends are equally revealing. Delhi, which recorded relatively low collections in 2023–24, saw a sharp increase to over 28 crore rupees the following year, indicating growing participation in crypto-related activities. Telangana, on the other hand, saw a decline in collections, while states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar continued to report comparatively lower figures. Overall, the data reflects a market that is expanding but remains concentrated in key financial and technology-driven regions rather than being evenly distributed across the country.

The regulatory response has focused on strengthening oversight and compliance. Virtual digital assets have been brought under the framework of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, providing greater regulatory clarity for stakeholders. Authorities have also taken steps to address non-compliant offshore platforms by issuing notices and restricting access where necessary. In parallel, enforcement agencies have acted against instances of financial misconduct linked to digital assets, with investigations leading to asset seizures and legal proceedings in certain cases.

In early 2026, onboarding requirements for crypto platforms were further strengthened. The updated KYC framework now includes measures such as liveness verification, geo-tagged data, and bank account validation to enhance user authentication. These steps are aimed at improving transparency and traceability within the ecosystem. Additionally, over 13,800 law enforcement personnel have been trained to handle crypto-related investigations, supported by digital forensic capabilities.

At the same time, discussions in Parliament continue to highlight the potential of blockchain technology beyond trading. The National Blockchain Framework is being explored for applications in public administration, with examples such as e-stamp systems in Maharashtra and mobile-based authentication solutions in Madhya Pradesh already in operation. These developments point to a broader approach that balances regulatory oversight with the exploration of technological use cases.

Taken together, recent parliamentary discourse reflects a more defined policy direction. The focus is on enhancing transparency, strengthening compliance, and exploring practical applications of blockchain technology. As the ecosystem evolves, the emphasis will likely remain on maintaining this balance while supporting sustainable growth.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences Delhi has introduced a state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) training centre aimed at enhancing medical education and clinical training for students.

The new facility uses immersive VR technology to simulate real-life medical scenarios, allowing students to practice procedures and decision-making in a controlled, risk-free environment. This approach is expected to strengthen practical skills and improve confidence before handling actual patients.

According to institute officials, the initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate advanced technology into medical training and keep pace with global standards in healthcare education. The VR centre will support learning across multiple disciplines, offering interactive modules tailored to various medical specialties.

The launch marks a significant step toward modernizing medical education in India, providing students with innovative tools to gain hands-on experience and improve patient care outcomes.

Indian pacer Harshit Rana has arrived in Kolkata ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings.

Although not part of the playing squad for this fixture, Rana is expected to be present to support his team from the sidelines. His arrival has generated excitement among fans, especially in Kolkata, where KKR enjoys strong local backing.

The much-anticipated clash between KKR and PBKS is set to draw significant attention, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position in the tournament. Rana’s presence is likely to boost team morale as they prepare for the crucial encounter.

The Chief Minister of Telangana, A. Revanth Reddy, laid the foundation stone for a ₹225 crore redevelopment project at the Gnana Saraswati Temple in Basara.

The project is aimed at improving infrastructure and providing better facilities for devotees visiting the temple. Key plans include upgrading amenities, expanding accommodation, and enhancing the overall environment while preserving the temple’s cultural and spiritual significance.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister highlighted the government’s focus on promoting religious tourism and ensuring a comfortable experience for pilgrims. The initiative is also expected to boost tourism and support the local economy.

The temple, dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the region and attracts thousands of devotees every year.

Five new projects span more than 84,000 sqm and create 500 jobs, extending KEZAD’s strong 2025 growth momentum

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 06 April 2026: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, one of the largest operators of integrated and purpose-built economic zones in the region, today announced that it has attracted five new industrial and logistics projects across KEZAD Al Ain and KEZAD Al Ma’mourah – Abu Dhabi, with investors committing a combined investment of AED 147 million, a total footprint of over 84,000 square metres, and the creation of 500 jobs.

The projects include Haber/Elixir, which will establish an oilfield chemicals blending facility; Grand Line Industries, which will set up a car cleaning products manufacturing facility; Precent Enterprises Metals Coating, which will develop a metal forming and coating facility; Unibal Group Investment, which will develop its second industrial and logistics warehousing project in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and its first project in KEZAD Al Ain (Unibal Park II). Meanwhile, Al Lul Transport & General Contracting, will develop a major industrial and logistics warehousing project in KEZAD Al Ma’mourah.

The projects add to the momentum KEZAD built in 2025, when it reached 73.6 sq km of leased land, recording 3.3 sq km of net new land leases, with 67 per cent of total land leases linked to industrial and manufacturing activity. The AD Ports Group’s Economic Cities & Free Zones cluster, which KEZAD Group is a part of, also reported AED 2.87 billion in revenue in 2025, up 45 per cent year on year. 

Abdullah Al Hameli, Chief Executive Officer, Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group, said: “These new projects reflect steady demand for industrial and logistics assets that support real economic activity in Abu Dhabi. The combined scale of investment, the diversity of sectors involved, and the 500 jobs these projects are expected to create are the highlights of these projects. This is the kind of growth that strengthens Abu Dhabi’s industrial base in practical terms, adding production capability, warehousing capacity, and long-term value across the wider trade ecosystem.”

Four of the projects are in KEZAD Al Ain, where they represent a little more than a combined 37,400 square metres, AED 47 million in investment, and 200 jobs. The fifth project, located in KEZAD Al Ma’mourah in Abu Dhabi, represents more than 46,500 square metres, AED 100 million in investment, and 300 jobs, making it the largest of the five by both value and employment.

The latest agreements show that businesses continue to choose KEZAD for infrastructure that is ready, connected, and built for growth. From specialist chemicals and metal processing to warehousing and logistics development, these projects add depth to KEZAD’s industrial offering and support its role in enabling investors to scale with confidence in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The new agreements come at a time when KEZAD continues to expand its industrial and warehousing base. In 2025, the Economic Cities & Free Zones cluster delivered 146,000 square metres of new warehouse capacity, while maintaining 91 per cent warehouse occupancy despite this additional supply. KEZAD also continued to advance specialised hubs including Metal Park, Rahayel Auto and Mobility City, Agtech Park, and Abu Dhabi Food Hub, widening its offer across core industrial sectors.

As Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its industrial and logistics base, KEZAD Group remains focused on enabling investors with integrated solutions that bring together industrial land, warehousing, utilities, and connectivity within one operating environment.

Apr 06:  Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited (ASPHL) continues to accelerate its growth trajectory with the launch of three new hotels on March 31, 2026 – marking a significant expansion of its presence across key leisure destinations in India. The Group announces the launch of Zone by The Park Darjeeling, Zone Connect by The Park Gangtok, and Zone Connect by The Park Katra.

By entering these iconic geographies simultaneously, the Group reinforces its position as a dominant force in India’s design-led and mid-scale hospitality sectors.

• Zone by The Park Darjeeling marks the entry into one of India’s most iconic hill destinations, bringing its signature design-forward sensibility, vibrant social spaces, and tech-savvy design to the “Queen of the Hills.”
• Zone Connect by The Park Gangtok caters to the growing demand for well-planned stays in a key hill destination, serving both leisure and adventure travellers.
• Zone Connect by The Park Katra marks the brand’s presence one of India’s most prominent spiritual destinations, offering a comfortable and efficient stay for visiting pilgrims and travellers.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr Vikas Ahluwalia, Associate Vice President and National Head – Zone by The Park Hotels, stated, “The simultaneous launch of these three hotels underscores our commitment to rapid growth and the strategic diversification of our portfolio. By establishing a presence in these vital getaways – from the spiritual heart of Katra to the serene heights of Darjeeling and Gangtok – we are meeting the evolving needs of the modern traveller. We look forward to a transformative 2026 as we continue our journey into new and exciting destinations.”