Love gets pricier in the land of roses

In Addis Ababa, the cost of celebrating Valentine's Day has risen, with prices for roses and dinners increasing, affecting buyers. Businesses, however, see a revenue boost on February 14. Kaleab Fekade, 28, is one buyer facing these higher costs.

For many in Ethiopia, February 14 marks a celebration. For businesses, it brings a surge in revenue. For buyers, it highlights how swiftly the price of a rose and an evening out can climb, as reported by Bekalu Anteneh, Fortune staff writer.

At 28, Kaleab Fekade believed he knew the cost of romance in Addis Ababa. He has been purchasing Valentine's flowers there. This perspective was detailed in an article dated February 15, 2026, by Bekalu Anteneh.

This price increase poses challenges for many buyers while delivering extra income to businesses. In Ethiopia, known for its roses, such dynamics play out annually on Valentine's Day.

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Argentine celebrities from sports and entertainment sharing romantic Valentine's Day gifts and social media posts in Buenos Aires.
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Argentine celebrities mark Valentine's Day with posts and gifts

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On February 14, 2026, several figures from Argentine entertainment and sports shared social media updates for Valentine's Day. From romantic gifts to relationship confirmations, the day sparked both affection and speculation.

Shoppers in Hong Kong are crowding the Mong Kok Flower Market, where vendors report a 20 percent sales increase for Valentine's Day. Stalls are lined with bouquets of all sizes, from a handful of red roses to 99, priced from about HK$200 to HK$3,000.

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In Addis Abeba, the holiday season brings both celebration and economic strain. While some families indulge in lavish decorations, others cherish simple family gatherings. Rising costs unite them in seeking deeper meaning.

Rising prices of cooking oil are forcing families and small businesses in Addis Ababa to make tough choices. Households are cutting back on consumption, altering dietary habits, or even pausing operations that can no longer afford costs. Retailers and wholesalers face an unpredictable market with no immediate signs of supply stabilization.

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Addis Ababa's National Theatre has raised ticket prices and hall rental fees for the first time in years to combat declining audiences. The changes, implemented internally two months prior, were formally approved by the Council of Ministers on November 29, 2025. Entrance fees have increased from 80 birr to 200 birr.

Rising global fertiliser prices are sending shockwaves through Ethiopia's agricultural sector. Urea has reached 488.3 dollars per ton, while DAP is projected to hit 770.6 dollars in the first quarter of 2025/26, marking over a 40 percent year-on-year increase. Smallholder farmers are feeling the immediate pinch of these costs.

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Mexico's Candelaria Day tradition, celebrated on February 2 with tamales, will see higher costs this year. An analysis shows preparing tamales will be 18% more expensive due to rises in key ingredients like meats and sauces. The holiday blends prehispanic roots and Christian elements in a deep-rooted custom.

 

 

 

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