Ghana’s cocoa industry faced a significant blow between 2022 and 2023, with approximately 120,000 metric tons of cocoa beans being smuggled out of the country, according to Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) CEO Joseph Boahene Aidoo. This staggering loss not only undermines the hard work of cocoa farmers but also affects Ghana’s revenue, which heavily relies on cocoa exports.

The surge in smuggling is largely driven by neighboring countries offering more favorable prices, making it attractive for smugglers to take advantage of the price discrepancies. The international cocoa trading system’s structure creates these price differences, leading to increased illegal cross-border activities.

COCOBOD has been working to combat cocoa smuggling, but the issue persists due to lack of coordination with neighboring countries. To address this, Mr. Aidoo calls for greater collaboration, stricter border controls, and more effective monitoring mechanisms.

Key Factors Contributing to Cocoa Smuggling:

– Price discrepancies: Neighboring countries offer higher prices for cocoa beans.
– International cocoa trading system: Creates price differences, facilitating smuggling.
– Lack of regional coordination: Hinders effective monitoring and control.

Consequences of Cocoa Smuggling:

– Revenue loss: Affects Ghana’s economy, reliant on cocoa exports.
– Threat to cocoa industry: Undermines farmers’ hard work and Ghana’s global market position.

COCOBOD remains committed to tackling cocoa smuggling, but acknowledges the need for a coordinated regional effort to succeed.