Ghana is projected to fall short of its cocoa production target for the 2024/2025 crop season, with output expected to peak at around 600,000 metric tonnes, below the Ghana Cocoa Board’s (COCOBOD) target of 610,000 metric tonnes.
COCOBOD Chief Executive Dr. Ransford Abbey confirmed that current production stands at 590,000 metric tonnes with only a few months left in the season.
“I don’t think much will change, looking at the time we have to end the crop season,” he said. “We could do about 600,000 metric tonnes at most, considering we’re now in the light crop season and we don’t see things turning around that much.”
Despite the shortfall, Dr. Abbey remains optimistic about the 2025/2026 season.
He indicated that several initiatives are underway to boost yields and encourage cocoa farmers to increase production. These include government-led programmes and new strategies to support farmers across the country.
“We will also look at some innovative measures to encourage the farmers to improve their yields,” Dr. Abbey noted.
On COCOBOD’s financial outlook, Dr. Abbey acknowledged that the organization is burdened with debts amounting to GHS33 billion.
However, he expressed hope that the situation will improve within the next four years. “We are hoping that by 2028, the books will be looking good, in terms of returning COCOBOD to profitability,” he said.
To support this goal, COCOBOD plans to implement cost-cutting measures aimed at improving its financial standing.
