Young cocoa farmers across Ghana have voiced serious concern over the government’s decision to reduce the cocoa producer price, warning that it signals troubling prospects for the sector’s future. In a statement issued on February 12, 2026, the Young Cocoa Farmers’ group said the price cut—set to apply for the remainder of the 2025–2026 crop season—has left many farmers disheartened, undermining confidence among those who have invested significant time, labour, and resources in cocoa production.
The farmers urged the government to prioritise price stability, stressing that fair compensation is essential to motivating young people and sustaining Ghana’s cocoa industry. They cautioned that continued uncertainty could push some farmers to scale back production or abandon their farms altogether—posing risks to productivity and Ghana’s global competitiveness.
The price reduction follows the decision of the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC), which set the new producer price at GH¢41,392 per tonne—or GH¢2,587 per bag—down from GH¢51,660 per tonne at the start of the 2025–2026 crop season. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson explained that the adjustment reflects prevailing global market conditions and is intended to restore confidence and liquidity within the cocoa value chain.
Despite their concerns, the Young Cocoa Farmers’ group reaffirmed their commitment to the sector’s growth, urging authorities to adopt corrective measures that safeguard farmer incomes, stabilise prices, and make cocoa farming appealing to the next generation.
Source: Abigail Arthur
