Cocoa Prices
Cocoa Farmers’ Outrage Boils Over
Ghana’s cocoa sector, the backbone of its economy, is facing fresh turmoil as cocoa farmers across the country threaten to smuggle their produce to neighboring countries in protest against disappointing farmgate prices.
The revolt comes just months after Ghana secured record earnings from global cocoa sales, yet farmers say they have seen little benefit. Many argue that the official farmgate price set by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) remains far below what they deserve, especially given rising global demand and skyrocketing international market prices.
“We Are Being Cheated” – Farmers
At a gathering in parts of the Ashanti, Western North, and Eastern Regions, farmers openly expressed their frustration, accusing authorities of failing to prioritize their welfare.
“We are the ones breaking our backs in the sun and rain to produce the cocoa. Yet while COCOBOD and government boast of billions, we can’t even pay our children’s school fees. If the government won’t pay us fairly, then we will send our cocoa to Côte d’Ivoire or Togo,” one angry farmer said.
Global Prices vs Local Realities
International cocoa prices surged to record highs in 2025 due to global shortages and climate impacts on production in West Africa. But Ghanaian farmers insist that the local price they are offered for their beans does not reflect these global gains.
In contrast, farmers in neighboring countries such as Côte d’Ivoire often receive slightly higher rates, making smuggling a lucrative option. Experts warn that if mass smuggling occurs, Ghana risks losing millions in foreign exchange revenues, further weakening the struggling economy.
COCOBOD Responds
COCOBOD officials have urged farmers to remain patient, promising that government is reviewing the situation. They argue that part of the revenues are used to subsidize fertilizer, extension services, and debt repayment, all of which ultimately benefit farmers.
But farmers say these explanations no longer hold water, given the widening gap between global cocoa prices and their actual earnings.
Looming Crisis
Economic analysts fear that if government does not urgently review cocoa pricing, Ghana could face a cocoa supply crisis, with farmers abandoning their farms or diverting produce across borders.
Dr. Isaac Adjei, an agricultural economist, noted:
“This is not just about farmers being angry. It is about the sustainability of the cocoa industry. If the government loses farmers’ trust, Ghana’s dominance in global cocoa markets will crumble.”
What Lies Ahead?
As the 2025 cocoa season peaks, tensions between farmers and government are likely to intensify. While authorities scramble to find a compromise, many farmers insist that this time, their patience has run out.
Source: My News Ghana
About the Author
