The Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) has commenced 24-hour operations at its cocoa takeover and export facilities. This strategic shift aims to significantly reduce delays, improve turnaround times, and make Ghana’s cocoa export chain more competitive globally.
This new operating model, termed Offload 24, Load 24, and Export 24, addresses critical bottlenecks. Offload 24 allows licensed buying companies to deliver cocoa around the clock. Load 24 ensures continuous supply to local processing factories. Export 24 extends inspection, sealing, documentation, and shipment preparations beyond traditional working hours.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader economic strategy to enhance export efficiency and value retention. It aligns with government efforts to boost non-traditional exports and improve the country's trade balance. The move also complements recent legislative changes, including a new COCOBOD law passed on July 30, 2026, which guarantees farmers at least 70% of the gross free-on-board value of cocoa.
Wisdom Dogbey, Managing Director of CMC, stated that operating around the clock will reduce congestion and accelerate exports. He noted that previous closures of CMC warehouses created bottlenecks despite other port services operating extended hours. Dr. Randy Abbey, Chief Executive of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), added that the model will reduce vessel waiting times and demurrage charges. He also highlighted that quicker cocoa movement reduces exposure to humidity and handling risks.
The expanded operations are expected to create new employment opportunities in cocoa-producing and port communities. These jobs will include roles for dock workers, quality control officers, weighbridge operators, security personnel, and logistics workers. The rollout begins at high-volume facilities in Tema and Takoradi, with efficiency gains carefully measured against operational costs.
Dr. Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, COCOBOD Board Chairman, illustrated the problem by recalling trucks waiting to discharge cocoa at 5 pm due to facility closures. He questioned the previous 5 pm closing time, advocating for 24/7 operations to serve global buyers effectively. Presidential Advisor Augustus Tanoh confirmed a feasibility study found the new model to be operationally and commercially sound.
This move is also part of a larger government ambition to process at least 50% of Ghana’s cocoa crop locally from the 2026/27 season. This aims to retain more value from cocoa within the country, boosting local industry and job creation. Tema East MP Isaac Ashai Odamtten emphasized that discipline among staff will be crucial for sustaining the expected gains from this initiative.
The CMC stressed that the 24-hour operations will improve speed and productivity without compromising safety or quality. This commitment is vital for Ghana to maintain its competitive edge in the global cocoa market. Stakeholders across the cocoa value chain attended the launch, signaling a new phase for Ghana’s crucial export sector.