Cocoa production has declined by nearly 50% over the past three years, posing a significant challenge to the country’s economy and export commitments.

This was revealed by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Statement on March 11.

Dr. Forson disclosed that in the 2023/2024 crop season, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) was unable to supply 330,000 tonnes of cocoa to fulfill its contractual obligations.

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"This under-supply has been rolled over for subsequent supply by the new administration," he stated, highlighting the impact of the shortfall on Ghana’s export agreements.

The Minister emphasised the urgent need for policy interventions to address the decline in cocoa production, stressing that the sector remains critical to Ghana’s economy.

"Cocoa production has dropped by nearly 50% over the past three years," he told Parliament, acknowledging the growing concerns among industry stakeholders.

To mitigate the impact, Dr. Forson assured Parliament that the government would implement measures to boost productivity and ensure stability in cocoa exports.