In September, Cocoa Marketing Company (Ghana) Limited, led by our MD, Wisdom Dogbey, hosted the CMC Freight Conference in Antwerp, Belgium, bringing together key stakeholders within the international cocoa shipping and logistics value chain.
A major outcome of the conference was the conclusion of freight rate negotiations between CMC, the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, and 18 carriers and shipping lines for shipping Ghana’s cocoa during the 2026/27 cocoa season.
The discussions considered developments within the global shipping market and the need to maintain competitive, reliable and predictable freight arrangements for Ghana’s cocoa exports.
Beyond the rates, the engagements also focused on strengthening operational efficiency across the export chain.
Shipping lines will continue to provide dressing materials, position empty containers at cocoa stuffing areas, and bear the associated lift-on/lift-off costs, while CMC remains responsible for dressing and stuffing containers, delivering full boxes to designated terminals, and fogging empty and laden containers.
Carriers and shipping lines were also encouraged to release non-negotiable Bills of Lading to CMC within 24 hours of vessel sailing, a measure expected to support greater efficiency and predictability in export documentation and cargo movement.
CMC will also continue working with relevant stakeholders to promote uniformity in lift-on/lift-off charges and stable prices for desiccants and related materials throughout the season.
These arrangements are critical to CMC’s ability to manage logistics efficiently, control export-related costs, honor contractual commitments, and maintain Ghana’s reputation as a reliable supplier of premium cocoa to international markets.
The Antwerp Freight Conference therefore went beyond freight negotiations. It provided an important platform to strengthen partnerships, improve operational coordination, and reinforce the systems that connect Ghana’s cocoa to markets across Europe, the Far East, and South America.
CMC appreciates Ghana Shippers’ Authority, participating carriers, shipping lines, and all stakeholders whose collaboration contributed to the conference’s success.
As the 2026/27 cocoa season progresses, CMC remains focused on operational excellence, competitive logistics, strong global partnerships, and the efficient delivery of Ghana’s cocoa to the world.
