The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has met leading international cocoa traders in London ahead of the 2026/27 cocoa season. The meeting was led by COCOBOD Chief Executive Dr. Ransford Abbey and his Deputy for Finance and Administration, Ato Boateng.
The Ghana Cocoa Marketing Company (UK) Ltd. (GCMC UK) organised the meeting. It brought together major cocoa trading and processing companies with long-standing business links to Ghana.
The talks focused on Ghana’s cocoa sector reforms and preparations for the new season. One major topic was the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 2026 (Act 1182), which was recently enacted.
The proposed cocoa sector financing framework also featured in the discussions. Participants reviewed plans for a commercial paper and bond financing programme.
They also discussed liquidity arrangements for the new cocoa season.
Private-sector financing for Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) was another key issue. The meeting further examined Ghana’s readiness to implement the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). COCOBOD said the engagement is part of efforts to maintain close communication with international cocoa trading partners.
The Board is also seeking stronger cooperation as it implements reforms to improve the cocoa sector. The discussions covered ways to improve the sustainability, efficiency and competitiveness of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
Participants described the engagement as open and constructive. They welcomed the opportunity to discuss the sector directly with COCOBOD’s leadership.
COCOBOD also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and regular engagement with industry stakeholders.
The Board said collaboration with international trading partners remains important as Ghana prepares for the 2026/27 season.
The meeting also highlighted the long-standing relationship between Ghana and the global cocoa trade. That relationship remains important to Ghana’s position as a trusted source of premium cocoa.
