Dear Cocoa Sustainability Enthusiasts,
I hope this message finds you well.
I am excited to share our latest position paper, titled “Assessing the Recent Cocoa Price Announcement by COCOBOD: Risks, Governance Issues, and the Future of Cocoa Markets.” This comprehensive analysis explores the implications of the recent farmgate price set by COCOBOD in Ghana, with a particular focus on the associated risks and governance challenges within the current marketing system.
The paper examines the significant impact of the new pricing on local farmers, market stability, and regional trade dynamics, especially in a rapidly digitalizing world where farmers have unprecedented access to global market information. Additionally, it considers the broader implications for the cocoa industry in light of emerging regulations like the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Key insights from the paper include:
Risks in Current Marketing Systems: An assessment of the vulnerabilities in traditional marketing approaches and the increasing demand for transparency and fairness in price-setting mechanisms.
Geographic Comparability and Price Differentials: A comparison of Ghana’s new price with those in other major cocoa-producing countries, highlighting the resulting cross-border trade and smuggling dynamics.
Governance and Consultation Issues: An analysis of the current gaps in stakeholder involvement in price determination, with recommendations for enhancing inclusivity and transparency.
Future Market Structure: Proposals for strategic reforms aimed at creating a more resilient and equitable cocoa market that benefits all stakeholders.
We believe this paper will serve as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of the cocoa market in Ghana and the broader West African region. It is intended to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable cocoa production and fair-trade practices.
Your feedback and insights on the paper would be greatly appreciated. Please find the document attached for your review.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement.
Best regards,


