COCOBOD announces GH¢1,241.76 per load as light crop purchases begin June 18
The government of Ghana, through the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), has announced that the producer price of cocoa for the 2026 Light Crop Season will remain unchanged despite declining global cocoa prices, protecting farmer incomes during the upcoming harvest.
According to a circular signed by the Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Agronomy and Quality Control, Dr Francis Baah, purchases for the 2026 Light Crop Season will commence on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Producer price maintained
The producer price will remain at GH¢1,241.76 per load of 30 kilogrammes for Grade I and II cocoa beans and GH¢2,587.00 per bag of 64 kilogrammes gross. Consequently, a tonne of cocoa, equivalent to 16 bags, will continue to attract GH¢41,392.00.
The decision underscores the government's commitment to protecting the incomes and livelihoods of cocoa farmers, even as international cocoa prices experience a downward trend. By maintaining the current producer price, the government aims to provide stability and confidence to farmers ahead of the new light crop season.
Background
The light crop season typically runs from June to September and accounts for a smaller portion of Ghana's annual cocoa output compared to the main crop season. Ghana remains the world's second-largest cocoa producer after Côte d'Ivoire, and cocoa is a major source of foreign exchange for the country.
Global cocoa prices have been volatile in recent months, with a downward trend that would ordinarily translate into lower earnings for farmers. However, the government's decision to hold the producer price steady means farmers will not bear the brunt of the international market downturn.
The announcement has been communicated to key stakeholders within the cocoa industry, including Licensed Buying Companies, COCOBOD management, relevant ministries and other sector players to ensure a smooth commencement of cocoa purchases nationwide.
Licensed Buying Companies are expected to begin purchasing cocoa from farmers on 18th June at the approved price. Farmers have been encouraged to take advantage of the stable pricing and sell their cocoa beans through approved channels.
Support for farmers
The government's decision to maintain the producer price follows similar interventions in previous seasons aimed at shielding farmers from global market fluctuations. COCOBOD has in recent years introduced programmes including hand pollination, irrigation and disease control measures to boost productivity and improve farmer livelihoods.
Farmers have been advised to ensure their cocoa beans meet Grade I and II standards to qualify for the full producer price. COCOBOD has also reminded farmers to sell only to Licensed Buying Companies to avoid exploitation by unlicensed buyers who may offer lower prices.
The light crop season purchases are expected to run until September 2026, with the main crop season commencing later in the year. COCOBOD has assured farmers that all purchases will be made promptly and that measures are in place to ensure transparency in weighing and payment processes.
