CMC launches 24-hour cocoa operations

The Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) in Ghana has introduced a 24-hour operational model to enhance cocoa logistics and exports. The initiative, spearheaded by CMC Managing Director Wisdom Kofi Dogbey, aims to streamline the movement of cocoa across the supply chain. CMC's approach is divided into three key pillars: Offload 24, Load 24, and Export 24.

Under Offload 24, CMC will accept cocoa from Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) around the clock to minimize truck queues and congestion. Load 24 will extend support to local processing factories, allowing them to operate beyond regular hours to receive cocoa. Export 24 will ensure that cocoa inspection, stuffing, sealing, documentation, and shipment preparations align with vessel schedules and port operations.

CMC's Managing Director emphasized that this initiative aligns with President John Dramani Mahama's 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme. By implementing this model, CMC aims to strengthen logistics integration, improve cocoa movement, and enhance coordination among various stakeholders, including warehouses, factories, ports, and international markets.

The initiative will be monitored using indicators such as truck turnaround times, volumes handled, documentation efficiency, shipment performance, safety, quality, and overall operational performance. CMC urges LBCs, cocoa processing companies, shipping lines, and other stakeholders to adapt to the extended operating hours to maximize the benefits of this new system.

CMC expects the 24-hour model to shorten the time between cocoa receipt, loading, and export, thereby improving domestic processing support and Ghana's competitiveness in the international cocoa market. The company expects the new operating model to contribute to Ghana's overall productivity and export acceleration efforts, as well as strengthen the country's position in the global cocoa trade.