The Produce Buying Company (PBC) Limited has secured a major deal with international partners to purchase 100,000 metric tons of cocoa valued at GH¢5.2 billion for the 2025/2026 farming season, according to Managing Director Seidu Yonye.
In an interview with Adil Fuseini on Home Radio, Yonye announced, “PBC have attracted external partners to buy 100,000 metric tons of cocoa worth GH¢5.2 billion for 2025/2026 farming season. As we speak, we have gotten some inflows of around GH¢70 million.”
The landmark agreement is a significant boost for Ghana’s cocoa industry, with the initial GH¢70 million inflow signaling strong confidence from global partners in PBC’s operations. The deal is expected to enhance the company’s ability to support cocoa farmers and stabilize the cocoa supply chain, a critical component of Ghana’s economy as the world’s second-largest cocoa producer.
Yonye also addressed PBC’s financial challenges during the interview, highlighting efforts to manage a substantial debt burden. “We are working with our shareholders, SSNIT and the Finance Ministry, to get banks to reduce their pressure as we work to get rid of a debt of over GH¢693 million,” he stated. This collaboration aims to ease financial constraints and allow PBC to focus on operational efficiency and farmer support.
Operating under the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), PBC plays a pivotal role in purchasing, storing, and transporting cocoa beans across the country.
The company’s efforts to secure international partnerships come at a crucial time, as Ghana navigates global cocoa price volatility and supply chain challenges, including the impact of the swollen shoot virus and aging cocoa farms.
The GH¢5.2 billion deal is expected to strengthen PBC’s financial position, enabling timely payments to farmers and supporting COCOBOD’s target of achieving 650,000 tonnes of cocoa production for the 2025/2026 season, with a long-term goal of reaching 1 million tonnes. Industry stakeholders have welcomed the announcement, with cocoa farmers expressing optimism about improved market access and financial stability.
As PBC works to reduce its GH¢693 million debt and implement the new cocoa deal, the company is poised to play a central role in driving growth in Ghana’s cocoa industry. With the 2025/2026 season approaching, the success of these initiatives will be key to maintaining Ghana’s position in the global cocoa market.
By: Adil Fuseini
