The United States Administration has officially informed the Government of Ghana that the 15% tariff previously imposed by President Trump on cocoa and other qualifying agricultural products from Ghana has been rescinded. The tariff reversal came into effect on November 13, 2025, following a new Executive Order signed by President Trump.
Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed the development, assuring Ghanaians that the exemption covers not only raw cocoa beans but also all semi-processed cocoa exported from Ghana to the USA.
This move is expected to significantly boost Ghana’s revenue, as the country exports an average of 78,000 metric tons of cocoa beans annually to the US. At the current spot price of $5,300 per metric ton, this tariff rescission is projected to allow Ghana to raise an additional revenue of US$60 million (GHS667 million) each year.
The tariff reversal also applies to a variety of other Ghanaian agricultural products, including cashew nuts, avocados, bananas, mangoes, oranges, limes, plantains, pineapples, guavas, coconuts, ginger, and assorted peppers.
The Mahama administration welcomed the positive development from the US, the world’s leading importer of chocolate and cocoa products, affirming its commitment to real value addition and continuing to negotiate the best possible deals for Ghana.
The government concluded by stating that Ghana and the USA will continue to forge closer and mutually beneficial relations.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
