In a significant move to shield local farmers from volatile international markets, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has announced that the producer price for cocoa during the upcoming 2026 Light Crop Season will remain unchanged.
The decision comes despite a noticeable decline in global cocoa prices. According to the official press release, purchases for the light crop season are scheduled to begin on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Under the maintained pricing structure:
- Farmers will receive GH¢1,241.76 per load of 30 kg for Grade I and II cocoa beans.
- The price per bag of 64 kg gross remains GH¢2,587.00.
- This translates to GH¢41,392.00 per tonne (equivalent to 16 bags).
The announcement was detailed in a circular signed by Dr. Francis Baah, Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Agronomy and Quality Control at COCOBOD.
“This decision underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the incomes and livelihoods of cocoa farmers,” the release stated. By keeping prices stable, authorities aim to instill confidence among producers as they prepare for the new season.
Cocoa is a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy, employing millions of smallholder farmers and generating substantial foreign exchange. Maintaining stable producer prices is a key policy tool used by successive governments to mitigate the impact of international commodity price fluctuations.
The announcement has already been disseminated to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), industry stakeholders, and relevant government ministries to facilitate a seamless start to the purchasing season.
Background Context: Ghana is one of the world’s top cocoa producers alongside Côte d’Ivoire. In recent years, the sector has faced challenges including climate variability, disease outbreaks, and global price volatility. This latest move reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to prioritize farmer welfare and sector stability.
