Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has underscored the need for increased local processing of Ghana’s cocoa as a strategic move to boost national revenue, create sustainable jobs and strengthen the country’s standing in regional and global markets.
She made the call during a high-level strategic meeting with the leadership of the Cocoa Processing Company (CPC), led by its Managing Director, Professor William Coffie.
The engagement centred on deepening Ghana’s cocoa value-addition agenda and positioning local cocoa products to compete more effectively on the international stage.
“Processing our cocoa locally is not just an economic priority; it is central to Ghana’s industrial growth and economic sovereignty,” the Vice President stated. “By adding value here at home, we ensure that Ghanaian cocoa products compete strongly in both African and international markets.”
The CPC management highlighted its recent performance gains, including a remarkable 100 per cent increase in its share price over the past three months, signalling renewed investor confidence in the company and the broader cocoa sector. Professor Coffie attributed this growth to the company’s commitment to quality, innovation and strategic market positioning.
“This surge in our share price reflects growing global recognition of Ghana’s cocoa potential and CPC’s dedication to excellence and value creation,” he said.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang further urged CPC to expand its domestic distribution network, with a special focus on senior high schools nationwide. She noted that this presents a significant opportunity to boost local consumption, improve youth nutrition and instil a culture of patronage for made-in-Ghana products among young people.
She also encouraged the company to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to expand its footprint across the continent.
“CPC has a unique opportunity to take Ghanaian cocoa products across Africa. AfCFTA provides the platform to grow markets, enhance competitiveness and showcase our high-value products beyond our borders,” she stressed.
Concluding the meeting, the Vice President reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for strategic institutions like the CPC, describing the company as a key driver in transforming Ghana’s cocoa industry.
“Our goal is to move from exporting raw cocoa beans to exporting proudly Ghanaian, high-value finished products. The CPC is leading this transformation, and the government will continue to support and strengthen its efforts,” she assured.
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