The European Union and Japan will start testing Ghana’s cocoa for heavy metals in September 2024 due to concerns about illegal mining contamination. Dr. Randy Abbey of COCOBOD emphasized the potential threats to the premium status of Ghana’s cocoa and warned of the necessary financial investments for compliance. The stricter testing requirements underscore the urgency for Ghana to address environmental issues linked to illegal mining to maintain its cocoa trade.
The European Union (EU) and Japan are set to commence testing for heavy metals in cocoa exports from Ghana starting September 2024. This initiative arises in response to increasing concerns regarding contamination resulting from illegal mining activities. Such measures may significantly affect the cocoa trade in Ghana, especially in vital export markets.
At a recent conference attended by Members of Parliament and essential stakeholders, Dr. Randy Abbey, acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), highlighted the detrimental effects of illegal mining on the cocoa sector. He urged for immediate measures to safeguard Ghana’s reputation as a leading cocoa producer globally.
Dr. Abbey stated, “The European Union and Japan have indicated that from September this year, they will begin testing for heavy metals, especially nickel, in our cocoa. The premium status of our cocoa, which gives us extra money, is under serious threat because they are starting with nickel.” He also remarked that other markets, such as North America and Asia, would likely follow suit in implementing similar testing.
Additionally, Dr. Abbey emphasized the financial implications of this new requirement, indicating that COCOBOD must invest substantially in establishing advanced laboratories at the Quality Control Center in Tema. He noted that testing requirements have expanded beyond moisture content and other traditional factors, now incorporating tests for heavy metals due to the pressing realities of illegal mining in cocoa-producing regions.
As international purchasers tighten their regulations, Ghana faces intensifying pressure to remediate the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining endeavors, which threatens the integrity of its cocoa exports.
In summary, the imminent introduction of heavy metal testing on Ghana’s cocoa exports by the EU and Japan represents a significant challenge for the country’s cocoa industry. With increasing concerns about illegal mining’s impact, stakeholders, including COCOBOD, must take decisive action to uphold Ghana’s standing in the global cocoa market and safeguard the quality of its exports.
Original Source: citinewsroom.com
