TCDA cracks down on shea companies over pricing and licensing breaches

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has issued warnings of potential legal consequences, including license revocation, to companies operating within Ghana’s shea industry following an enforcement operation conducted on October 15, 2026. The operation, involving the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, and National Security, came as part of efforts to enforce the Tree Crops Development Authority Act, 2019 and the Tree Crops Development Authority Regulations, 2023.

Dr Andy Osei Okrah, the TCDA Chief Executive Officer, addressed the media after the operation, stating that processors, traders, buyers, exporters, and aggregators would be held responsible for any rule violations in the shea industry. Preliminary investigations revealed that some companies were purchasing raw shea nuts below the approved minimum producer price of GH¢9.01 per kilogramme, which came into effect on June 1, 2026.

Another issue identified was the sale and purchase of shea nuts with moisture content surpassing the permissible maximum of 10 percent. The TCDA’s quality standards include moisture content between 8 and 10 percent, free fatty acid levels between 6 and 8 percent, and impurities between 2 and 4 percent. Dr Okrah emphasized that the Authority would not tolerate disregard for the established regulations, warning that violators would face legal action.

The joint task force inspected various companies and buying centers to verify registration and licensing, supplier records, purchase transactions, and adherence to documentation requirements. During the inspection, irregularities such as unlicensed operations, insufficient supplier information, and the lack of valid conveyance certificates for in-transit consignments were discovered.

Dr Okrah stressed the importance of accurate documentation and traceability for effective regulation and monitoring of shea nuts. Companies found non-compliant during the preliminary checks were requested to submit comprehensive lists of their suppliers and aggregators for verification. The TCDA urged these companies to correct their operations, provide accurate records, and cooperate with regulators, warning that non-compliance could result in sanctions under the law.