Topeka Chocolate Maker Navigates Tariffs Under Schmidt

Hazel Hill Chocolate founder discusses impact of trade policy on small business

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:37am

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A close-up photograph of a single dark chocolate bar with intricate cocoa bean textures and a subtle sheen, resting on a clean, monochromatic background and illuminated by dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the delicate balance of global trade and local business.A premium craft chocolate bar from Topeka's Hazel Hill Chocolate symbolizes the complex trade policies impacting small businesses.Topeka Today

Hazel Hill Chocolate, a craft chocolate maker in Topeka, Kansas, is navigating the complexities of trade policy and tariffs under the leadership of U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt. Nick Xidis, the founder of Hazel Hill, discusses how changes in tariffs on imported cocoa and other ingredients have impacted his small business.

Why it matters

The story of Hazel Hill Chocolate illustrates the real-world effects of trade policy decisions made by elected officials like Derek Schmidt. As a Republican congressman, Schmidt's stance on tariffs and free trade has implications for small businesses in his district that rely on imported ingredients.

The details

Hazel Hill Chocolate sources many of its ingredients, including cocoa, from overseas suppliers. Changes to tariff rates on these imports have forced Xidis to adjust his business model and pricing to maintain profitability. Xidis has had to work closely with Schmidt's office to navigate the complexities of trade regulations and secure exemptions where possible.

  • Hazel Hill Chocolate was founded in Topeka in 2015.
  • U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt has held his congressional seat since 2011.

The players

Nick Xidis

The founder and owner of Hazel Hill Chocolate, a craft chocolate maker in Topeka, Kansas.

Derek Schmidt

The U.S. Representative for Kansas's 2nd congressional district, who has taken a stance as a free trade advocate while also working to support local businesses impacted by tariffs.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a free trade person by philosophy,”

— Derek Schmidt, U.S. Representative

What’s next

Representative Schmidt is expected to continue working with small businesses like Hazel Hill Chocolate to address the challenges posed by evolving trade policies.

The takeaway

This story highlights the complex balancing act faced by policymakers like Derek Schmidt, who must reconcile their free trade principles with the real-world impacts on local businesses in their districts.