NPP demands review of GH¢2,650 cocoa price, questions statutory calculation

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has demanded a review of the government's current cocoa producer price of GH¢2,650 per 64kg bag for the 2026/27 season. The opposition party argues that the new price is insufficient and fails to meet the statutory requirement set forth by the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 2026 (Act 1182). The NPP's concern lies in the calculation used to determine the 71.18 percent of the gross FOB value that must be paid to cocoa farmers.

They question the transparency of the government's methodology and have called for adjustments to ensure compliance with the law. Additionally, the NPP accuses the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of breaking campaign promises to cocoa farmers, stating that the NDC had previously assured a producer price of GH¢6,000 per bag and that the farmers were lured into believing that the current GH¢3,100 per bag was exploitative.

According to the government, the new price is in line with the Act and reflects the outcomes of consultations with various stakeholders in the cocoa industry. However, both parties are now in disagreement over the accuracy of the 71.18 percent calculation that underpins the government's announcement.