The United States has officially announced the removal of a 15% tariff imposed on Ghana’s cocoa and agricultural exports. This move was confirmed by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who stated that the US administration informed the Government of Ghana that the tariff imposition, introduced during President Trump’s tenure, has been rescinded. The reversal of the tariff, which came into effect on November 13, 2025, follows a new Executive Order by President Trump.

The removal of the tariff is expected to have a positive impact on Ghana’s economy, particularly the cocoa sector, which is the backbone of the country’s agricultural economy. Ghana exports an average of 78,000 metric tons of cocoa beans to the United States annually, and with the current spot price of $5,300 per metric ton, the country stands to raise additional revenue of $60 million each year. The exemptions also cover other Ghanaian agricultural products, including cashew nuts, avocados, and bananas.

This development comes at a sensitive moment in Ghana-US relations, following recent dialogue on visa restrictions and the acceptance of deportees from the United States. The US had previously imposed visa restrictions on Ghanaian travelers, but these have since been reversed. The removal of the tariff is seen as a significant diplomatic win for Ghana, following years of tension over deportations and documentation compliance.

Analysts have welcomed the move, describing it as a “win-win situation” for both countries. Accra-based economist Daniel Amateye Anim-Prempeh noted that the cocoa sector stands to gain the most from improved access to the US market. Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, relies heavily on export revenues to stabilize its currency and finance public spending.

The removal of the tariff is expected to strengthen relations between Ghana and the US, with Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister stating that the country welcomes this positive development and looks forward to forging closer and mutually beneficial relations with the US. The US is the world’s leading importer of chocolate and cocoa products, and this move is expected to increase trade between the two countries.