Cocoa farmers across Ghana will continue to receive the same producer price for their produce during the 2026 Light Crop Season after the government decided to maintain existing rates despite declining prices on the international market.
The decision, announced by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) on Friday June 12, 2026, is expected to provide relief and certainty to thousands of cocoa farmers whose livelihoods depend on the crop.
According to a press release issued by COCOBOD, purchases for the 2026 Light Crop Season will begin on June 18, 2026, with the producer price remaining at GH₵1,241.76 per load of 30 kilograms of Grade I and II cocoa beans.
Farmers will also continue to receive GH₵2,587.00 per bag of 64 kilograms gross, while a tonne of cocoa, equivalent to 16 bags, will attract GH₵41,392.00.
COCOBOD said the government’s decision reflects its commitment to protecting the incomes of cocoa farmers at a time when global cocoa prices are trending downward.
By maintaining the current producer price, authorities hope to shield farmers from the effects of international market fluctuations and ensure stability within the sector.
The move is also expected to boost farmer confidence ahead of the start of the light crop season, enabling producers to plan their activities with greater certainty.
Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s most important export commodities and serves as a major source of income for hundreds of thousands of farming households across the country.
Industry observers say the decision underscores the government’s recognition of the critical role cocoa farmers play in sustaining the country’s economy and maintaining Ghana’s position as one of the world’s leading cocoa-producing nations.
COCOBOD noted that the revised arrangements have been communicated to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), management, relevant ministries and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth commencement of cocoa purchases nationwide.
The maintenance of producer prices comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the cocoa sector and improve the welfare of farmers, many of whom continue to grapple with rising production costs and other challenges affecting agricultural productivity.
SOURCE: MAVIS FANTEVI
