Finance Minister-Designate Cassiel Ato Forson Clarifies Role in Setting Cocoa Producer Prices
Cassiel Ato Forson, Ghana’s Finance Minister-designate, has clarified that he does not have the authority to set the producer price for cocoa in the country. Speaking before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on January 13, 2025, Forson reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for better compensation for cocoa farmers but emphasized that the power to adjust cocoa prices lies with the Agriculture Minister and the relevant committees.
“Mr. Chairman, as we speak, the chairman of the producer price committee is the Agric Minister and not the Finance Minister,” Forson explained during his testimony. He highlighted the government’s decision to separate responsibilities, noting that a bill was brought to the House by President Akufo-Addo, which further defined the roles in determining cocoa pricing.
Forson stressed the importance of prioritizing cocoa farmers, acknowledging that the decline in cocoa production could be partly attributed to the inadequate prices farmers receive. “I think the cocoa farmer must be prioritized. One of the reasons why our cocoa is going down is that we are not paying the cocoa farmers a fair price,” he stated.
Although he does not have direct control over the pricing, Forson emphasized his willingness to work closely with the Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) to implement policies and initiatives aimed at supporting cocoa farmers. “I will work with the Ghana Cocobod as a real sector active player to help incentivize them, to encourage them to be able to cultivate the cocoa and for them to be able to be encouraged to stay in the sector,” he said. Forson further underscored the importance of the cocoa sector as Ghana’s largest single employer and the critical role it plays in the economy.
In response to questions about the proposal to pay cocoa farmers GH₵6,000 per ton as the producer price, Forson reiterated his belief in fair compensation for farmers, stressing that the industry must support the livelihoods of those involved in it.
Forson’s statements reflect his commitment to supporting the cocoa sector, even within the limits of his designated role, as he navigates his potential tenure as Finance Minister and seeks to find sustainable solutions to enhance cocoa production and improve the livelihoods of Ghanaian farmers.
