In a pivotal effort to regulate the export of raw agricultural commodities and boost domestic value addition, Ghana will, from May 2, 2025, require all exporters of unprocessed rubber, cashew, and shea to obtain prior written authorization from the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA).
This new directive, announced via a public notice signed by TCDA Chief Executive Officer Andy Osei Okrah, marks the activation of Regulation 50 under the Tree Crops Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2471).
Backed by the Tree Crops Development Authority Act, 2019 (Act 1010), the regulation aims to tighten oversight, discourage the mass export of raw materials, and stimulate local agro-processing industries.
“All stakeholders engaged in the export of raw rubber, cashew, and shea must obtain valid export permits from the Authority starting May 2,” the statement said.
Under the new rules, exporters must regularize their operations with the Authority and show proof of development levy payments before being issued Phytosanitary Certificates by the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD).
Failure to comply will be considered a breach of the TCDA Act and will attract punitive measures, the TCDA statement added.
The TCDA says the strategy is part of a broader national agenda to maximize the economic potential of non-traditional exports like cashew and shea, create jobs through agro-processing, and retain more value within the local economy. Ghana has long faced challenges with raw commodity exports yielding limited returns due to minimal domestic processing. By enforcing permit systems and regulatory levies, authorities hope to shift this narrative.
As global demand for tree crop products grows, especially in sectors like natural cosmetics, health foods, and industrial materials, Ghana’s emphasis on value chain development may position it to better capture economic benefits, attract foreign investment, and build resilient rural economies.
