Omanghana
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has announced that producer prices for cocoa will remain unchanged for the 2026 Light Crop Season, which is set to begin on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
The announcement was made in an official directive signed by the Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Agronomy and Quality Control, Dr. Francis Baah. COCOBOD says the decision is intended to provide stability for cocoa farmers amid ongoing fluctuations in global cocoa markets.
Producer Prices Remain Stable
Under the approved pricing structure for the upcoming season, farmers and Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) will continue to operate at the current rates:
- GH¢1,241.76 per 30-kilogram load of Grade I and Grade II cocoa beans
- GH¢2,587.00 per 64-kilogram gross bag at the farmgate
- GH¢41,392.00 per metric tonne, equivalent to 16 standard gross bags, for Licensed Buying Companies
The unchanged rates are expected to provide certainty and predictability for farmers as the new harvesting season begins.
Safeguarding Farmers from Global Price Volatility
COCOBOD explained that maintaining the current producer price is aimed at protecting cocoa farmers from the impact of international market instability.
By absorbing potential price fluctuations on the global market, the regulator hopes to preserve farmers’ incomes and ensure financial stability within cocoa-growing communities across the country.
The decision also reinforces confidence in Ghana’s cocoa sector, which remains a major pillar of the national economy.
Commitment to Quality Standards
The Board has reminded farmers that adherence to quality standards remains essential in order to receive the full producer price.
Farmers are encouraged to ensure proper fermentation and drying of cocoa beans to meet Grade I and Grade II requirements. COCOBOD noted that maintaining these standards is crucial for sustaining Ghana’s reputation for premium-quality cocoa on the international market.
Farmers Advised to Use Licensed Buying Companies
COCOBOD has also urged cocoa farmers to sell their produce only through authorized Licensed Buying Companies.
The Board cautioned that unlicensed middlemen often take advantage of the peak harvest season to offer lower prices or manipulate weighing systems, potentially shortchanging farmers. Using approved buyers ensures transparency and guarantees payment of the official producer price.
Systems Ready for Season Launch
COCOBOD confirmed that all necessary operational systems, including weighing equipment and payment platforms, have been deployed across purchasing centers and depots nationwide.
These measures are designed to ensure smooth and efficient transactions once cocoa warehouses officially open for purchases on June 18.
The 2026 Light Crop Season is expected to run through September 2026, providing a structured marketing period for both farmers and Licensed Buying Companies under the unchanged pricing regime.
Source: Omanghana
