CMC secures agreement to hold shipping rates after freight talks

The Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) said it has reached an agreement to keep current shipping rates following discussions at this year’s Cocoa Freight Negotiation Conference hosted by the Senalia Group.

CMC Managing Director Dr. Wisdom Kofi Dogbey led the Ghanaian delegation to the annual forum, which brought together shipping lines and other logistics stakeholders to review freight issues affecting the cocoa trade. Delegates had been pressing for higher rates; CMC said the outcome preserves existing tariffs for now.

“We must unite to create a sustainable framework that supports our farmers and ensures the success of Ghana’s cocoa industry,” Dr. Dogbey said at the conference. He urged shipping companies to step up calls at Takoradi Port, deploy modern logistics technology and ensure a consistent supply of food-grade containers.

The Ghana Shippers Authority backed CMC’s negotiating position, the company said. CMC added that its delegation engaged carriers and industry partners to press for measures that would support reliable, cost-effective transport for exporters.

Dr. Dogbey also visited a French chocolate manufacturer using Ghanaian beans during the conference, a trip CMC described as part of efforts to deepen market ties and understand downstream demand.

CMC characterised the avoidance of a rate increase as a positive result for Ghanaian exporters and said it would continue working with ports, shippers and regulators to address logistics constraints. The company said it hopes the discussions will lead to improved cooperation and operational solutions in the months ahead.