The National Cocoa Farmers Association of Ghana has expressed deep disappointment following the announcement of a new cocoa pricing regime by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.
The Association labelled the price reduction as unfair, a threat to the survival of farmers, and a significant breach of trust.
Nana Yaa Asantewaa, the Public Relations Officer for the Association, noted that the current government made numerous promises to farmers while in opposition.
She emphasised that it was based on these commitments that farmers voted for them; however, the new pricing structure departs drastically from those assurances.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson explained that the decision comes as global cocoa prices have dropped from $7,200 to $4,100 per tonne. To cushion the impact on farmers, the Producer Price Review Committee recommended paying 90% of the gross FOB price.
This sets the new producer price at GHS 41,392 per tonne (or GHS 2,587 per bag) for the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year, effective February 12, 2026.
Nana Yaa Asantewaa argued that this move is unprecedented and will adversely affect not only the farmers but also the labourers they employ.
“This is terrible, unfair, and disappointing. Even the GHS 3,600 we previously received was not enough; to reduce it to GHS 2,587 is unfortunate. The impact will be felt. The saddest part is that when the minister announced the reduction, he did not state whether the salaries of COCOBOD workers or their profit margins would be reduced, nor did he mention if the price for licensed buyers would be cut.
For the sake of fairness, we expect that the salaries of staff at COCOBOD should be reduced. This must affect everyone in the cocoa value chain, not just the farmers.”
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, she further claimed that the government is gradually shifting its focus to the “Gold Board”, leading to the neglect and subsequent challenges within the cocoa sector.
“The government no longer has an interest in cocoa affairs. The establishment of the Gold Board is an indication that the government is no longer interested in the sector. We have nothing to say but to stress that we want the salaries of COCOBOD staff reduced. We don’t see the value they bring to us. It is shocking that COCOBOD is always recording losses. There should be an overhaul of the Board.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
