Ghana’s Higher Cocoa Price Raises Smuggling Concerns as Ivory Coast Announces New Rates
February 28,2026
International news agency Reuters has confirmed that Ivory Coast will pay cocoa farmers between 800 and 1,000 CFA francs per kilogram for the mid-crop season beginning March 1.
The country’s main crop price had previously been set at 2,800 CFA francs per kilogram.
When converted, the new mid-crop rate translates to approximately GH¢980 to GH¢1,225 per 64kg bag.
In comparison, Ghana is currently paying cocoa farmers GH¢2,587 per 64kg bag — more than double the equivalent price in Ivory Coast.
Smuggling Risks Rise
The significant price difference between the two neighboring cocoa-producing countries is expected to increase the risk of cross-border smuggling.
Industry observers warn that when Ghana’s farmgate price is substantially higher, there is a strong incentive for cocoa beans to be smuggled across the border to take advantage of the better returns.
Ghana and Ivory Coast together account for more than 60% of global cocoa production, making pricing decisions in both countries highly influential on regional trade and farmer behavior.
Authorities may therefore need to strengthen border surveillance and enforcement measures to prevent illegal cocoa inflows, which could distort production figures and impact policy planning.
The development comes at a time when both countries are navigating global cocoa supply challenges and volatile international prices.
