An economist at the University of Ghana Business School, Prof. Patrick Asuming, has warned of a growing risk of cocoa smuggling due to persistent price gaps between Ghana and neighbouring countries.
Speaking in an interview with ABC News, he cautioned that farmers are incentivized by better prices elsewhere, and the existing disparities could prompt some to smuggle their produce across borders.
“Every time there is a price differential, that problem will occur,” Prof. Asuming stated, highlighting how regional imbalances in producer prices undermine domestic market stability.
He added that the issue has become cyclical and must be addressed decisively by policymakers.
Prof. Asuming emphasized a two-pronged approach to curb the threat. “We have to address the price from two sides. One, we have to avoid price differential,” he said.
As Ghana prepares for its next cocoa season, his comments reignite concerns about the impact of price misalignment on national cocoa revenue and farmer loyalty.
