Swiss chocolate maker Lindt & Spruengli posted a 5 per cent rise in first-half net profit and confirmed its targets, despite high inflation and a slowing economy.

Net profit for the period rose to 23 million Swiss francs ($20.95 million), compared with the average forecast of 21 million francs in a Reuters survey of analysts.

The maker of Lindor pralines and gold-wrapped Easter bunnies said it was maintaining its long-term growth target of 6 to 8 percent annually and an increase in profitability by 20 to 40 basis points.

But the group said 'a weakening economy and fear of inflation are beginning to impact consumer sentiment, especially in the US.'

'Lindt & Spruengli expects the market environment to remain tense for the second half of the year and beyond,' it said.

Lindt, which has tapped the growing appetite for premium and dark chocolates, has so far offset higher raw material prices by raising the price of its products.

The group expects cocoa prices to fall over the medium and long term but said further price hikes would be necessary if prices did not fall.

Chocolate makers are facing a tough business environment as consumer spending weakens due to economic concerns and as commodity prices spiral to record highs.

Operating profit at Lindt rose 12 per cent to 33.6 million francs on a 3 per cent rise in sales to 1.17 billion francs.-Reuters