COCOBOD Introduces Revised Reward Scheme to Combat Cocoa Smuggling

COCOBOD Introduces Revised Reward Scheme to Combat Cocoa Smuggling

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has introduced a revised reward scheme that allocates one-third of the value of confiscated cocoa to informants and anti-smuggling operatives as part of renewed efforts to curb illicit cross-border trade.

The initiative, according to COCOBOD, is aimed at enhancing public participation in the fight against cocoa smuggling, a persistent challenge that continues to erode national revenue and threaten the stability of Ghana’s cocoa industry.

Under the revised arrangement, individuals who provide credible information leading to the seizure of smuggled cocoa will be entitled to one-third of the assessed value of the confiscated beans. The same applies to security and anti-smuggling operatives involved in successful operations.

COCOBOD believes the incentive will encourage residents of border communities and transport corridors to collaborate more actively with authorities in exposing trafficking networks.

The move forms part of broader efforts by COCOBOD to safeguard Ghana’s cocoa sector, which supports millions of livelihoods and remains a critical pillar of the national economy.

Cocoa smuggling, driven largely by price differentials between Ghana and neighbouring countries, has long been a source of concern for policymakers. The illicit activity not only deprives the state of revenue but also distorts local market dynamics and undermines fair compensation for farmers, processors, and licensed buying companies.

As the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, Ghana faces growing pressure to protect the integrity of its premium beans amid surging global demand and competition from other producers.

The revised reward scheme, COCOBOD says, represents a decisive step toward safeguarding national interests, improving traceability, and ensuring the sustainability of the cocoa value chain.