2026/27 cocoa season: COCOBOD engages international trading partners in London

Dr. Ransford Abbey, the Chief Executive of COCOBOD, and Mr. Ato Boateng, his Deputy in charge of Finance & Administration, convened a strategic meeting in London with top international cocoa trading firms ahead of Ghana's upcoming 2026/27 cocoa season. The gathering, organized by the Ghana Cocoa Marketing Company (UK) Ltd. (GCMC UK), aimed to foster ongoing dialogue with crucial stakeholders and keep trading partners apprised of COCOBOD's reform initiatives to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and competitiveness within Ghana's cocoa industry.

Topics under discussion encompassed the newly passed Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 2026 (Act 1182), the proposed financing framework for the cocoa sector, preparations for the forthcoming cocoa season, and other commercial matters pertinent to industry stakeholders. Crucial areas of focus included the commercial paper and bond financing scheme, liquidity arrangements for the season, the part private-sector financing would play in supporting Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), readiness for the implementation of the EUDR, and avenues to bolster collaboration between COCOBOD and international trading partners.

The meeting was marked by open, constructive, and forward-looking conversations. The participants expressed appreciation for the chance to engage directly with COCOBOD's leadership and to exchange viewpoints on bolstering Ghana's cocoa sector and ensuring a robust start to the new season. COCOBOD reiterated its pledge to transparency, stakeholder engagement, and continuous collaboration with its trading partners as arrangements for the new financing framework progress.

The meeting also reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Ghana and the international cocoa trade and highlighted the shared dedication to upholding Ghana's status as a trusted and favored provider of premium cocoa.