Ato Forson calls for stronger Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire partnership to transform Cocoa Sector

Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has called for a comprehensive transformation of the cocoa sector, stressing the need to build a more resilient, prosperous and profitable industry that delivers greater benefits to farmers and the economies of both Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.

Speaking at the 7th Steering Committee Meeting of the Côte d’Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Dr Forson underscored the importance of deepening collaboration between the world’s two largest cocoa-producing countries to secure the future of the sector.

“The cocoa sector deserves to be transformed into one that is more resilient, prosperous, and profitable for the benefit of both our countries and our farmers,” he stated.

According to the Finance Minister, stronger cooperation between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire is essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the cocoa industry and improving the livelihoods of the millions of farmers who depend on it.

He noted that both countries face similar challenges, including volatile global markets, climate change impacts, and threats to cocoa production. However, he said coordinated action and strategic engagement would enable them to better manage risks and strengthen their influence within the global cocoa value chain.

“As the world’s two leading cocoa-producing countries, we must engage more consistently and strategically to protect our economies. By doing so, we can better anticipate challenges, mitigate shocks, and shape the future of the industry rather than merely reacting to its disruptions,” Dr Forson said.

He emphasized that continued dialogue and collaboration between the two countries should focus on delivering tangible outcomes that improve the welfare of cocoa farmers and support future generations.

Dr Forson therefore urged members of the Steering Committee to prioritize practical solutions and concrete initiatives that will strengthen the partnership and advance the interests of cocoa-producing communities.

The Finance Minister also disclosed that the Presidents of Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, John Dramani Mahama and Alassane Ouattara, are expected to hold a high-level meeting to reaffirm the strategic partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to the development of the cocoa sector.

He expressed optimism that enhanced cooperation between the two countries would help build a stronger, more sustainable cocoa industry capable of delivering lasting economic benefits for producers and their communities.