A Leeds couple say life is "hard" as the price of sweets has shot up by at least "20 per cent" during the cost of living crisis.

The latest Food and Drink Federation (FDF) trade snapshot in the UK has made for sobering reading, revealing that export trade with our nearest neighbours across market segments was down by 13.1% against figures from three years ago, at £20.2 billion.

An industry warning has been issued that the UK faces further potential supermarket shelf shortages – including confectionery, snacks and bakery aisles, amid Brexit-related supply chain complications, reports Neill Barston.

The UK government’s latest figures on British chocolate exports to the EU reducing by 68% in January due largely to Brexit policies makes for extremely sobering reading for all involved.

Exports of chocolate to Europe have turned into a nightmare of paperwork and delays, making fine British chocolate scarce in Europe.

Delays, paperwork and additional costs are making British chocolate scarce in Europe.

Many foods that contain ingredients derived from animals, such as dairy products, will need an Export Health Certificate.

Sweets are among retailer’s products affected by ‘rules of origin’ regulations.

Mondelēz and Ferrero confirm they are ramping up stockpiling of raw materials in case of no trade agreement with EU.

Company commits to UK but says consumers could pay more or get less confectionery as a result of exit from EU.

While businesses struggle with the red tape of no-deal planning, ministers are busy with commemorative coins.

Industry draws link between politicians’ talk of crashing out of EU and firms losing clients. / A no-deal Brexit will be “commercial suicide” with tens of thousands of jobs already lost in the UK because of the political uncertainty, manufacturing representatives have said.