VOICE FM NEWS DESK
Ghanaian Cocoa Farmers Rally for 70% Global Price Share
June 5, 2025 | Kumasi
Ghana’s cocoa farmers have intensified their campaign for a decisive 70% share of global cocoa revenues, demanding immediate reforms to what they call “decades of systemic exploitation.” The coalition is pressuring COCOBOD and international buyers to overhaul pricing structures ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Speaking exclusively to Voice FM, farmer coalition spokesperson Kwame Asante delivered a stark message: “When multinationals sell a bag for $2,800, traders pocket $1,500 while we survive on $1,300. This starvation economy must end – 70% is our lifeline, not a request.”
The push comes amid revelations that global chocolate profits surged 15% last year, while Ghana’s farmers receive barely half the Free-On-Board price – a share hovering between 52-55% that fails to cover soaring production costs. Farmers are also demanding cancellation of debts accumulated from underpaid harvests and enforcement of the Living Income Differential (LID) premiums routinely circumvented by buyers.
Notably, this campaign aligns with Ivory Coast’s recent threat to suspend sales to non-compliant buyers. Together, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire control 65% of global cocoa supply, granting unprecedented leverage. Industry analysts warn chocolate supplies could face disruption if negotiations stall.
COCOBOD has yet to respond to the farmers’ ultimatum.