In a move that has sent shockwaves through the agricultural sector, the Government of Ghana has officially announced a significant reduction in the cocoa producer price. As of February 19, 2026, farmers will now receive GH¢2,587 per bag (64kg), down from the previous GH¢3,228.75.
The decision, approved by the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC), is intended to address liquidity challenges and a sharp drop in international market prices. However, it leaves many farmers facing a “haircut” of over GH¢16,000 per tonne. For official confirmation of these figures, you can visit the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) official portal.
New Cocoa Pricing Structure (Effective February 2026)
The revised pricing structure is aimed at ensuring COCOBOD can fulfill its payment obligations to farmers who have experienced delays since late 2025. This adjustment is critical for the stabilization of the Ghanaian Agricultural Economy. Unit of Measurement New Price (GH¢) Per Bag (64kg Gross) GH¢2,587.00 Per Tonne (16 Bags) GH¢41,392.00 Per Load (30kg) GH¢1,241.76
Why the Price Reduction? Global Market Pressures
According to the latest reports from the Ministry of Finance, the global market price for cocoa has dropped from an average of $7,200 to $4,100 per tonne. This drop made the previous Ghanaian price uncompetitive and created a massive debt gap for the state.
Key reforms announced alongside the price cut include:
- Domestic Cocoa Bonds: A new financing model to reduce reliance on foreign loans.
- Local Processing: A directive to ensure at least 50% of cocoa beans are processed locally.
- Liquidity Injection: Speeding up the payment of arrears to farmers.
Exchange Rate Impact: The Cedi and Cocoa
Parallel to the cocoa news, the Ghana Cedi remains under scrutiny. As of February 19, 2026, the Bank of Ghana Interbank rates show the Cedi trading steadily, yet the cost of imported fertilizers continues to weigh on farmers. Any further depreciation of the Cedi could worsen the impact of this price cut.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the new cocoa price take effect?
The new price of GH¢2,587 per bag is effective immediately for all purchases made within the 2026 light crop and main crop seasons.
2. Are there still plans for farmer pensions?
Yes, the Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme remains active, though deductions will now be calculated based on the new producer price. You can check your status on the COCOBOD reforms page.
3. How does this compare to Ivory Coast?
Ghana often aligns prices with Ivory Coast to prevent smuggling. Current trends suggest both nations are moving toward a unified stabilization fund to protect against future price drops.
Stay tuned for more updates. For those looking for career opportunities in the public sector, check out our latest guide on GES Recruitment 2026 Application Portal.
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