Vice President Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for intensified local processing of Ghanaian cocoa as a key strategy to boost national revenue, create jobs, and strengthen the country’s position in regional and global markets.

The Vice President made the remarks during a strategic meeting with the leadership of the Cocoa Processing Company (CPC), led by Managing Director Prof William Coffie.

The engagement focused on ways to expand Ghana’s cocoa value-addition agenda and enhance the competitiveness of Ghanaian cocoa products.

“Processing our cocoa locally is not just an economic priority; it is central to Ghana’s industrial growth and economic sovereignty,” Prof Opoku-Agyemang said.

“By adding value here at home, we ensure that Ghanaian cocoa products compete strongly in both African and international markets.”

CPC highlighted its recent achievements, including a 100% increase in its share price over the past three months, reflecting renewed investor confidence.

Prof Coffie noted, “The growth in our share price demonstrates the global recognition of Ghana’s cocoa potential and CPC’s commitment to excellence.”

The Vice President also encouraged CPC to expand domestic distribution, particularly targeting senior high schools across the country.

“This untapped market can increase local consumption, support youth nutrition, and cultivate a new generation that values Ghanaian products,” she emphasised.

On continental expansion, Prof Opoku-Agyemang pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a strategic platform.

“CPC has the opportunity to take Ghanaian cocoa products across Africa.

AfCFTA provides the avenue to grow markets, enhance competitiveness, and showcase our high-value products to the world,” she stated.

Concluding the meeting, the Vice President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting strategic institutions like CPC.

“Our mission is to transform Ghana’s cocoa sector from exporting raw beans to exporting proudly Ghanaian, high-value products.

CPC is leading this effort, and the government will continue to back them fully,” she said.