Farmers to Receive $5,040 Per Tonne of Cocoa for 2025/2026 Season — 4% Price Hike Announced
ACCRA, GHANA — Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson announced on August 4, 2025, that cocoa farmers will now receive GH¢51,660 per metric tonne, equivalent to approximately US$5,040, for the 2025/2026 cocoa season, representing a 4% increase over the current rate.
Price Details & Rationale Behind the Adjustment
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The new producer price becomes effective from August 7, 2025, coinciding with the start of the harvest season.
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Previously, Ghana paid GH¢49,600 per tonne (GH¢3,100 per 64kg bag).
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Government officials cited rising global cocoa prices and 42% cedi appreciation as key drivers of the modest hike, balancing farmer welfare with macroeconomic stability.
International Market vs Local Payment: The Comparison
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Global cocoa prices have surged to between US$7,400 and US$7,800 per tonne in mid‑2025.
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Despite this, Ghana’s fixed farm-gate price—while increased—is still about 35–40% below global benchmarks, raising concerns among farmer groups.
Investigative Insight: Balancing Support and Sustainability
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The 4% increase comes amid rising pressure from cocoa growers’ unions demanding higher alignment with world market rates, especially following Côte d’Ivoire’s recent price hike.
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Analysts highlight that Ghana’s price rigidity, meant to curb inflation and fiscal strain, may inadvertently fuel cocoa smuggling and farmer disenchantment.
Source: My News Ghana
