The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is taking stronger measures to combat cocoa smuggling. This illegal activity has severely impacted Ghana’s cocoa industry. In the 2023/24 season, the country lost about 160,000 tons of cocoa due to smuggling. The main reasons were price differences with neighboring countries and payment delays.
To tackle the problem, COCOBOD is working closely with state security agencies. Together, they have increased border surveillance to prevent illegal cocoa exports. Recently, COCOBOD and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) stopped a smuggling attempt at the Togo border. Smugglers had concealed cocoa beans in gallons, but authorities intercepted them.
COCOBOD’s Chief Executive, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, suspects that foreign entities may be involved in these illegal activities. As a result, the government has launched a special anti-smuggling initiative. The Ghana Armed Forces are now leading efforts to strengthen border security and deter smugglers.
Beyond security measures, COCOBOD has also introduced economic strategies. The organization has raised the fixed farmgate price for cocoa farmers. This increase makes local sales more appealing and reduces the incentive to smuggle beans to neighboring countries.
These combined efforts show COCOBOD’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s cocoa industry. By improving security and offering fair prices, the government hopes to end cocoa smuggling and secure farmers’ livelihoods.
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