Despite soaring chocolate prices worldwide, cocoa farmers in West Africa are facing deep financial hardship as the global cocoa market slumps. In Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, which together produce much of the world’s supply, state regulators locked in prices at around $5,300 per ton before global markets crashed well below that level. The mismatch has stalled sales and delayed payments to farmers, affecting an estimated 800,000 growers in Ghana alone. Cocoa boards have lowered guaranteed prices and taken internal pay cuts to ease mounting debts, but many farmers say the relief is too little. With livelihoods tied almost entirely to cocoa, the crisis now threatens rural economies, family stability, and the long-term health of one of West Africa’s most vital industries.
BBC
