Friday, 20 February

Sefwi Wiaso MP urges cocoa farmers to remain calm amid global market shifts

Politics
Aful Benteh Kofi, Wiaso MP

The Member of Parliament for Sefwi Wiaso, Aful Benteh Kofi, has called on cocoa farmers nationwide to remain patient as the government responds to shifts in the global cocoa market.

In an interview, the MP—who represents the cocoa-producing constituency of Sefwi Wiaso—addressed growing concerns about the government’s inability to sustain the previously announced 70 percent farmgate price for cocoa.

He explained that the pledge was made at a time when international cocoa prices were significantly higher, but subsequent declines have made it difficult to maintain that rate.

According to him, volatility in global cocoa prices has affected expected revenues, prompting the need for adjustments to ensure the long-term health of the sector.

Mr Kofi said the government is working on a new legislative proposal that would introduce a dynamic pricing system.

Under the proposed framework, farmgate prices would be aligned more closely with global market trends, enabling farmers to benefit when international prices increase while helping to stabilise the sector during downturns.

“As someone from a cocoa-growing community, I understand the concerns of our farmers,” he noted.

“I urge them to remain patient and recognise the realities of the global market.

The steps being considered are aimed at ensuring sustainability and improved returns over time.”

 

He emphasised that the objective is not to disadvantage farmers but to establish a more transparent and responsive pricing mechanism that reflects market conditions while protecting Ghana’s cocoa industry.

The MP expressed confidence that the proposed reforms, once enacted, would promote greater stability and fairness in cocoa pricing.

Source: Classfmonline.com