The government has announced a significant increase in the producer price of cocoa, effective tomorrow, Friday, October 3, 2025. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson confirmed that the new price is set at GHS3,625 per bag, which translates to GHS58,000 per tonne.
This immediate adjustment represents a substantial jump of approximately GHS400 per bag, amounting to a 12.27% rise over the price announced just two months prior in August. Despite the boost for farmers, Dr. Forson noted that the margins, fees, and rates for all other industry stakeholders, including the regulator COCOBOD, will remain unchanged.
In addition to the price hike, the Minister detailed plans for intensified support programs aimed at boosting production and improving farmer welfare. COCOBOD will enhance the free supply of essential farming inputs, including both liquid and granular cocoa fertilizers, insecticides, spraying machines, fungicides, and flower inducers. These inputs are critical for protecting the crop from disease and pests while increasing overall yields, thereby ensuring the sustainability and growth of the cocoa sector.
Looking towards long-term social welfare, Dr. Forson reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing the new Tertiary Education Scholarship Scheme. This new initiative is specifically designed for the children of cocoa farmers and remains on track to be rolled out for the 2026/27 academic year.
This move underscores COCOBOD’s focus on investing in the future of cocoa-farming communities by ensuring access to higher education for the next generation.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
