Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer has increased its cocoa producer price by 62.58%, from $3,100 to $5,040 per tonne for the 2025-26 season, aiming to raise farmers’ share of export earnings to 70% of the Free-On-Board (FOB) value, up from 63.9%.
Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson announced the hike, citing improved macroeconomic conditions like a stronger cedi and lower inflation. This move, fulfilling President John Mahama’s campaign promise, may pressure rival Ivory Coast, which pays farmers $3,900 per tonne, and could further elevate global cocoa prices amid tightening supply chains due to climate shocks and ageing farms.
Ghana also reintroduced a free cocoa fertilizer program to boost yields.
Meanwhile Critics note that price controls, meant to stabilize farmer earnings, have not kept pace with global market highs, leading some farmers to sell land to miners, causing environmental damage and reduced production.
Leave a Reply