Ghana's Leading Cocoa Factories Forced to Close due to Shortages


Ghana's cocoa processing units have fallen silent as a shortage of beans worsens in the world's second-largest cocoa grower. Companies such as Cargill Inc., Cocoa Processing Co. Ltd., and Niche Cocoa Ghana Ltd have had to intermittently shut down their units in recent months, impacting the local industry.

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The effects of the bean shortage are evident around Cargill's factory in Tema, Ghana, where chimneys stand idle, and machinery remains silent. The absence of the usual chocolate aroma in the air is a stark reminder of the crisis facing the cocoa industry in the region.

The situation has been exacerbated by extreme weather conditions, including heavy rains and the scorching Harmattan winds, which have damaged cocoa crops in West Africa. This has led to delays in harvests, the spread of diseases, and a potential decrease in global cocoa supplies, causing concerns about shortages in the market.


The shutdown of processing plants that convert raw beans into cocoa products like butter and powder could lead to a scarcity of chocolate-related goods in Europe and North America. As a result, New York cocoa futures have surged to record levels, threatening to raise prices for consumers.

Industry experts warn that the tight market conditions could have long-lasting effects on cocoa production and supply. Ghana's strict market controls and reduced bean arrivals at ports have also contributed to the crisis, prompting some growers to smuggle their output to neighboring countries for better prices.

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The neighboring Ivory Coast, the world's top cocoa producer, is facing a similar crisis with a deficit in bean arrivals and potential disruptions in processing operations. Companies like Cargill, Barry Callebaut AG, and Olam Group Ltd. may also be forced to halt their machines due to the bean shortage.

Despite acknowledging the challenges, companies are striving to meet customer demands while grappling with the uncertain future of cocoa supply. The ongoing issues in the cocoa industry suggest that higher prices for chocolate products are inevitable as companies navigate the tight market conditions and supply chain disruptions.



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