Cocoa farmers in Taraba State are experiencing unprecedented prices for grade 1 cocoa beans, with rates reaching as high as N950,000 per 100-kilogram bag.
This surge in prices, the highest ever witnessed in the state, is attributed to soaring international demand for the commodity.
Yusuf Sanda, a cocoa farmer from Kurmi LGA, notes that middlemen are flocking to the area to purchase old stock of cocoa beans at lucrative prices. Kurmi, known for its high concentration of cocoa farmers, has become a hotspot for traders from the Southeast and Southwest regions of Nigeria.
Adamu Musa, another farmer, corroborates the increased flow of middlemen, revealing that grade 1 cocoa beans are now priced between N950,000 and N1 million per bag. This surge in prices marks a significant escalation from previous years when cocoa was sold for N200,000 to N400,000 per bag.
James Mainasara underscores the allure of cocoa farming in the area, with many farmers now eager to engage in cocoa production given the favorable market conditions. However, concerns linger regarding the lack of local involvement in cocoa trading, as outsiders control the entire buying network.
Despite the premium quality of cocoa produced in Taraba State, challenges persist in accurately pricing and branding the commodity. Robert Adamu advocates for the establishment of a cocoa grading center and cooperative societies for cocoa farmers to ensure fair pricing and maximize the value of their produce.
The surging demand for Taraba’s high-grade cocoa beans underscores the state’s potential as a key player in the cocoa market, highlighting the need for strategic interventions to empower local farmers and enhance the value chain.
