Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has called for stronger collaboration between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire to safeguard the future of the cocoa industry and improve the livelihoods of farmers across both countries.
Speaking as Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire Cocoa Initiative (CIGCI) at the 7th Ordinary Meeting in Abidjan, Dr. Forson stressed the importance of sustained dialogue and coordinated action among the world’s two largest cocoa-producing nations.
He noted that the in-person meeting followed a virtual engagement held on May 4, 2026, where both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation within the cocoa sector.
Partnership Key to Industry Transformation
Dr. Forson emphasized that deeper collaboration should not be viewed as an end in itself but as a tool for addressing challenges facing cocoa-producing countries and ensuring long-term benefits for farmers.
“While we may not be able to resolve all our challenges here today, our collective determination to make a genuine and lasting positive impact on our farmers, our countries, and future generations should remain the driving force that guides our work.” - Dr. Forson
According to him, the partnership remains essential to protecting the economic interests of both nations and ensuring that cocoa farmers receive greater value from the global cocoa trade.
The Finance Minister reiterated his earlier call for more strategic engagement between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, noting that both countries have a unique responsibility to shape the future of the global cocoa industry.
“As the world’s two leading cocoa-producing countries, we must engage more consistently and strategically to protect our economies,” Dr. Forson stated.
He explained that stronger cooperation would enable both countries to anticipate market challenges, reduce the impact of external shocks and take a more proactive role in determining the direction of the industry.
Focus on Practical Solutions
Dr. Forson urged participants at the meeting to engage constructively and focus on practical outcomes that will strengthen the partnership and deliver tangible benefits to farmers.
He said the ultimate goal should be to transform the cocoa sector into one that is more resilient, profitable and sustainable for future generations.
“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 added.
The meeting is expected to advance discussions on key issues affecting cocoa production, pricing, sustainability and farmer welfare, as Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire continue efforts to strengthen their collective influence in the global cocoa market.
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