Ghanaian cocoa farmers are set to earn more in the upcoming 2025/2026 season, as the government raises the producer price by 4.15%—from GHC49,600 to GHC51,660 per tonne (GHC3,228.75 per bag)—effective August 7.
In dollar terms, the increase is even more striking, jumping 62.58% to US$5,040 per tonne, reflecting President Mahama’s promise to give farmers at least 70% of the cocoa export value.
Announced by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the move comes with a package of fresh support for farmers: free fertilisers, insecticides, and spraying equipment, plus a new Cocoa Tertiary Scholarship Scheme launching in 2026 for farmers’ children.
To meet rising global standards, Ghana will also introduce a Cocoa Traceability System this season to ensure sustainable sourcing and compliance with EU regulations on deforestation and labour practices.
In a major shake-up, COCOBOD will be stripped of non-core duties like road construction and refocused solely on boosting yields and farmer welfare. A legal amendment will lock this mandate into law.
With cocoa output projected at 650,000 tonnes and inflation easing, the government says these bold steps aim to restore cocoa as the backbone of Ghana’s economy.
Story: Lawal Mohammed
