Ivory Coast will maintain the fixed price paid to cocoa farmers at 1,200 CFA francs ($2.14) per kilogram for the 2026/27 main crop season starting September 1, four industry and two government sources told Reuters. This price is significantly lower than the record 2,800 CFA francs per kilogram paid at the start of the 2025/26 season, according to livemint.com.
The decision to keep the price steady follows consultations among government officials and industry stakeholders. Sources indicated that the move aims to stabilize the cocoa market amid global price fluctuations. However, the price gap with neighboring countries like Liberia and Guinea may increase smuggling activities, as farmers seek better returns across borders, the report noted.
Ivory Coast is the world’s largest cocoa producer, and its pricing policies heavily influence global cocoa markets. The reduced farmgate price contrasts with Ghana’s approach, where cocoa prices are reviewed periodically to reflect market conditions. The fixed price strategy may impact farmer incomes and regional trade dynamics, highlighting ongoing challenges in balancing producer welfare with market stability.
The 2026/27 cocoa season officially begins on September 1. Industry watchers will monitor how the fixed price affects production volumes and smuggling trends, especially given the persistent price disparities in West Africa, according to livemint.com.