New price of cocoa does not reflect efforts of farmers - Dr Afriyie Akoto

Government has announced a 62.74 per cent increment in the producer price of cocoa for the 2014/2015 season which opens on Friday, October 3, 2014.

Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament has described the increase as inadequate and disappointing.

Speaking to Radio Ghana, the Minority spokesperson on Agriculture, Dr. Afriyie Akoto said the new price does not reflect the efforts put in by farmers in cocoa production.

He asked government to rescind its decision and increase the price to GH¢479.00 for a bag of cocoa instead of the GH¢345.00 announced.

He said if care is not taken, the new price will encourage smuggling to neighbouring countries.

GBC