Government Intervention
Côte d’Ivoire has announced a state-led operation to absorb accumulated cocoa stocks held by farmers during the 2025–26 main campaign, as authorities move to stabilise the domestic market amid softer international prices and marketing bottlenecks. According to official communications, the government plans to purchase around 123,000 tonnes of cocoa directly from producers at the guaranteed farm-gate price of 2,800 FCFA/kg, representing an estimated financial commitment of around FCFA 344.4 bn. The measure is designed to protect producer incomes while easing congestion in collection zones.
The intervention comes as parts of the supply chain face sluggish offtake and logistical delays, with unsold cocoa reported across several producing regions. By removing stocks from farms, the authorities aim to restore liquidity, accelerate purchases, and re-channel beans towards processing plants and export ports.
The announcement was made on 20 January 2026 by the Minister of Agriculture, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, with implementation expected to involve sector institutions and marketing structures.
Market impact
Producer downside protected via the historically high guaranteed price
Near-term domestic supply pressure to be eased, reducing distress sales
Export and processing flows expected to normalise as collection zones clear
Our take
While the move does not alter global cocoa fundamentals, it underlines Côte d’Ivoire’s continued reliance on direct state intervention to smooth internal market dislocations. Execution speed and funding clarity will be key to preventing further stock accumulation as the campaign progresses.
Cocoa-grade fertiliser trade strengthened in 2025 making the current downturn in prices in cocoa bean important to watch for 2026 planning.
CIV Government Moves to Absorb Unsold Cocoa Stocks
AFRIQOM Market Reporter
