Ghana Set to Announce New Cocoa Price as Global Market Surges and Bauxite Lease Cancelled for Foreign Investment Push

Cocoa Price Announcement Expected Before August 7

The Government of Ghana is expected to announce a new producer price for cocoa ahead of the 2025/2026 crop season, which begins August 7. This follows the conclusion of technical committee discussions, according to Joy Business sources.

The current producer price stands at GH¢3,100 per bag or GH¢49,600 per tonne. In line with earlier commitments, President John Mahama reiterated the government’s pledge to ensure cocoa farmers receive at least 70% of the world market price. This initiative aims to safeguard farmer earnings and restore fairness in Ghana’s largest export crop.

However, COCOBOD CEO Dr. Randy Abbey has raised concerns that the cedi's recent appreciation could dampen expected gains for farmers. While global prices have soared, he noted that “with the cedi appreciating sharply, the gains could be reduced when translated into Ghana cedi.”

Ghana Cancels $1.2 Billion Bauxite Lease with Rocksure.

In a major shift in its mineral policy, the government has terminated a $1.2 billion bauxite lease with Rocksure International. The contract, which covered the Nyinahin Hills in central Ghana, was the basis for a joint venture under the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC).

The lease had not been ratified by Parliament, and under a 2019 Supreme Court ruling, that renders it void.

GIADEC is now in advanced talks with new foreign partners—including Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) and several Chinese firms- to develop Ghana’s estimated 900 million metric tons of bauxite. EGA has confirmed ongoing discussions, citing strategic alignment with its objective to diversify its supply base after losing its Guinea license.

Extraction from the Nyinahin site, known as Block B, is expected to commence in early 2026. Ghana aims to boost national bauxite output from 1.7 million metric tons to 2 million tons by 2025, per the Ghana Chamber of Mines.

DVLA to Digitise ‘Drive from Port’ Number Plate System

From August 1, 2025, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) will fully phase out aluminium 'Drive from Port' (DP) plates in favour of a digital DP sticker system. This digitised format, piloted at the Tema and Takoradi ports, is part of DVLA’s broader effort to modernise and secure port-based vehicle registration.

In collaboration with the State Insurance Company (SIC), each vehicle issued a DP sticker will automatically receive insurance coverage before exiting the port premises.

DVLA says this shift will enhance security, efficiency, and customer service delivery for vehicle importers. The public has been encouraged to support the transition.

Investor's Insight: Ghana’s Retail Resurgence

Ghana's Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector expanded by 7% in value and 3% in volume in 2024, reflecting a strong rebound in consumer demand for food and beverages. This trend creates new investment opportunities in:

• Local food manufacturing

• Beverage distribution logistics

• Retail channels focused on value packs

For investors eyeing short- to medium-term growth in consumer sectors, Ghana’s retail rebound signals renewed profitability across distribution and retail networks.

Source: SumsureIQ, 2025

Live Rates Snapshot – July 29, 2025

• USD/GHS: 10.49

• Annapurna Salt 200G: ₵3.00

• Madar Soap 185G: ₵6.00

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