Cocoa, oil palm sectors on tenterhooks

Ghana’s tree crop sector, particularly cocoa and oil palm, faces uncertainty as the European Union (EU) parliament prepares to vote on the proposed implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

Initially set to take effect on December 30, 2024, the regulation will require companies trading with the EU to prove their products are deforestation-free, not linked to forest degradation, or illegal activities.

Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, has made progress with farm traceability, making it better prepared than other sectors.

However, concerns remain regarding smallholder readiness and issues like illegal mining (galamsey). A potential delay in the regulation could extend the deadline to January 1, 2026, offering more time for compliance.