Minority MPs push for GH₵7,000 per bag cocoa price hike

Opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislators are urging the government to increase the price of cocoa, demanding that farmers receive at least GH₵7,000 per bag.

During the 2024 election campaign, key figures in the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) promised that cocoa farmers would receive no less than 60% of the international market price for cocoa.

Recently, the Minister for Agriculture suggested that this could be raised to 70%.

Dr. Isaac Yaw Opoku, NPP MP for Offinso South, insists that the government must fulfil its campaign pledge.

“During the 2024 elections, the NDC repeatedly assured farmers of a producer price of no less than 70% of the world market price. After 44 days in office, farmers’ expectations remain high, and the government must not allow these hopes to fade,” he stated.

Speaking at a press conference in Parliament on Wednesday, February 19, Dr. Opoku called for an immediate price adjustment, demanding that cocoa farmers receive at least GH₵7,400 per bag.

“We insist that the new cocoa price should not be set below GH₵7,000 per bag,” he added.

The minority’s demand aims to ensure fair compensation for farmers, aligning with international market trends and government promises.