After a record low output in the 2023/24 season, Ghana is optimistic about a resurgence in cocoa production for the current 2024/25 crop year, Western media reported.
Farmers, officials from regulatory body Cocobod, and buyers report healthier cocoa trees and improved yields thanks to favorable weather conditions and better agricultural practices.
"The crop is amazing; the trees are productive and you can count not less than 50 pods per tree," said one of the farmers, as quoted by Western media.
However, challenges persist. Illegal gold mining, bean smuggling, and the threat of black pod disease remain concerns. While Cocobod anticipates a recovery to 650,000 tons, the International Cocoa Organization predicts a more conservative 500,000 tons.
To combat smuggling, Cocobod has increased the farmgate price and implemented a new funding model requiring upfront payments from global traders. This change has reportedly received mixed reactions, with some expressing concerns about potential delays and continued smuggling.