The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has acknowledged that disparities in cocoa pricing are negatively affecting Ghana’s cocoa sales on the international market.
According to the CEO, the pricing gap between Ghana and competing cocoa-producing countries has made it increasingly difficult to maintain Ghana’s traditional dominance in global cocoa trade.
Competitive Disadvantage in Global Market
The COCOBOD boss admitted that buyers are increasingly sensitive to price variations, and even marginal differences can shift demand to alternative suppliers. He noted that while Ghana’s cocoa is widely regarded for its premium quality, global market forces are driven by pricing competitiveness.
“When our prices are significantly higher than what is offered elsewhere, buyers naturally explore more affordable options,” he reportedly stated.
Ghana is the world’s second-largest cocoa producer after Ivory Coast, and competition between the two West African giants remains intense.
Revenue and Farmer Impact
Industry observers warn that reduced cocoa sales could affect foreign exchange inflows and government revenue, given cocoa’s central role in Ghana’s economy. The crop remains one of the country’s top export earners and supports millions of livelihoods.
The pricing gap, analysts suggest, may also encourage cross-border smuggling if farmers perceive better incentives in neighboring countries.
Call for Strategic Reforms
The CEO emphasized the need for strategic pricing reforms to ensure Ghana remains competitive without undermining farmer welfare. He reiterated COCOBOD’s commitment to balancing producer prices with global market realities.
Stakeholders within the cocoa sector have long called for a more responsive pricing framework that protects farmers while safeguarding Ghana’s position in the global cocoa value chain.
The admission is likely to intensify ongoing debates about cocoa sector reforms and the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry in an increasingly volatile global market.
