The United States has lifted the 15% tariffs previously imposed on cocoa and several other agricultural exports from Ghana.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the development in a Facebook post on Monday, November 24, 2025.
He explained that the decision, which took effect on November 13, 2025, followed a new executive order issued by President Trump.
The Minister noted that U.S. officials had formally communicated the change, clarifying that the tariff removal applies to cocoa beans and other major Ghanaian products, including cashew nuts, avocado, banana, mango, orange, plantain, pineapple, guava, coconut, ginger, and various types of peppers.
The move is expected to significantly benefit Ghana’s cocoa sector. The country ships an estimated 78,000 metric tons of cocoa beans to the United States annually, and with current spot prices around $5,300 per metric ton, the Minister estimated that the tariff reversal could generate an additional US$60 million (GHS 667 million) each year.
He welcomed the decision and emphasized that the two countries will continue to strengthen cooperation for mutual benefit.
The earlier tariff increase followed a July 31 executive order by President Trump, which imposed 15% reciprocal tariffs on several countries, including Ghana. The move raised concerns among Ghanaian exporters, particularly in the cocoa industry, a key source of foreign exchange.
Ghana’s government had strongly opposed the measure. Deputy Trade Minister Sampson Ahi described it as unfair, noting that the United States does not produce cocoa.
Trade analysts say the episode underscores the importance of expanding intra-African trade under initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
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