Ghana Faces Lowest Cocoa Output in 20 Years Amidst Calls for Higher Farm-Gate Prices



The Ghana Civil-Society Cocoa Platform (GCCP) has shared its reflections on the 2023/2024 cocoa season and outlined its expectations for the upcoming 2024/2025 farm-gate price announcement. Ghana is on track to experience its lowest cocoa production in over two decades, with output expected to be slightly above 500,000 metric tonnes—levels not seen since the 2002/2003 season. Despite global cocoa prices reaching a historic high of $12,261 per tonne in April 2024, Ghanaian farmers have not significantly benefited from these gains due to longstanding issues in cocoa marketing strategies.


Mr. Teinor Francis, President for Mankrong Cocoa farmer Society at a press conference disclosed that, the 2023/2024 season was fraught with challenges, including low yields, high inflation, currency depreciation, high input costs, and extreme weather conditions. These issues were compounded by delays in the disbursement of cocoa syndicated loans, leading to financial difficulties for local Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) and fueling cocoa smuggling to neighboring countries. Additionally, illegal mining activities have severely damaged cocoa farmlands, further threatening the livelihoods of farmers.


As the new season approaches, the GCCP is calling for a substantial increase in the farm-gate price, expecting a 65-70% rise based on global market conditions. The Platform argues that the minimum farm-gate price should be set at GH₵57,320 per tonne, translating to GH₵3,583 per bag of cocoa beans. The GCCP also urges the government to implement more effective policies to support farmers, address systemic flaws in the cocoa marketing strategy, and ensure sustainable production in line with global standards.


While the government has made strides in enhancing cocoa production through various initiatives, the GCCP highlights that challenges remain in the implementation of these programs. Issues such as nepotism and politicization have led to apathy and sabotage in some communities, undermining the gains. The Platform also raises concerns about the potential collapse of local LBCs if new financing strategies are not carefully managed.


The GCCP continues to advocate for policies that will improve the livelihoods of cocoa farmers across Ghana and ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector.











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