Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has disclosed that Ghana’s cocoa production has declined by nearly 50% over the past three years, posing a significant challenge to the country’s economy and export commitments.
Presenting the 2025 Budget Statement on March 11, Dr. Forson revealed that during the 2023/2024 crop season, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) was unable to supply the required 330,000 tonnes of cocoa to meet its contractual obligations.
“This under-supply has been rolled over for subsequent supply by the new administration,” he stated, emphasizing the impact on Ghana’s export agreements.
The Minister stressed the urgent need for policy interventions, noting that the cocoa sector remains a crucial pillar of the economy.
“Cocoa production has dropped by nearly 50% over the past three years,” he told Parliament, acknowledging growing concerns among industry stakeholders.
Dr. Forson assured lawmakers that the government would introduce measures to boost productivity and stabilize cocoa exports in response to the crisis.
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