Ghana, a major cocoa producer, is set to commence its 2025/2026 main cocoa harvest a full two months ahead of schedule in a strategic move to curb the persistent issue of bean smuggling to neighboring countries. The early start, slated for September instead of the traditional November, aims to tighten security and disrupt illicit trade routes.
Joseph Boahen Aidoo, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod), confirmed the early commencement in a recent announcement. This proactive measure comes as Ghana continues to grapple with significant volumes of cocoa beans being smuggled across its borders, primarily to countries where prices or payment terms might be more attractive.
The decision to advance the harvest underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding its cocoa revenues and ensuring that the beans are sold through official channels. By having the cocoa available earlier, authorities hope to reduce the incentive for smuggling and strengthen the supply chain within Ghana.
This early harvest will necessitate logistical adjustments for Cocobod and licensed buying companies (LBCs) in terms of resource allocation, purchasing arrangements, and storage. Stakeholders across the cocoa value chain will need to adapt quickly to the revised timeline to ensure a smooth and efficient harvest.
While the early start is primarily focused on combating smuggling, it could also potentially offer Ghana a slight advantage in accessing the early part of the global cocoa market for the new season. However, the primary driver remains the urgent need to address the economic losses and instability caused by the illegal cross-border trade of cocoa beans.
