By: Fasu Donzo – donzofasum@gmail.com
Monrovia – The President of the Liberian Cocoa Exporters Association, Sheikh Turay, has expressed confidence that Liberia is on track to reclaim its prewar position in the global cocoa industry.
Speaking to this station over the weekend, Mr. Turay—who also serves as Chief Executive Officer of Liberation Liberia—highlighted steady progress in the country’s cocoa sector, pointing to a notable increase in cocoa exports and the corresponding benefits for local farmers.
“There has been a significant boost in the quantity of cocoa being shipped out of Liberia, and this is translating into tangible dividends for farmers across the country,” he stated.
According to Turay, the Government of Liberia, in partnership with international stakeholders, has intensified its support for cocoa farmers. These growing investments are not only increasing production but also creating jobs and improving livelihoods, particularly in rural communities.
He noted that cocoa exporters and farmers are now working in close coordination with the Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA) to ensure that Liberian cocoa meets both regional and international standards.
Turay identified Grand Gedeh, Nimba, and Lofa counties as Liberia’s new “melting pots” for cocoa production. These regions, he said, are gaining recognition from neighboring countries and international buyers due to the rising quality of beans being produced.
“For years, cocoa from Liberia was largely unrecognized for its quality,” Turay explained. “It was often processed in bulk without traceable origins. Many exporters wanted to improve quality but lacked the technical know-how.”
That trend is now changing. With technical and logistical support from the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries (CBI), Liberia has made significant progress in producing premium-grade cocoa that meets European market standards.
“Higher quality means better market value,” he added. “This leads directly to higher incomes for our farmers and workers, and it helps transform entire communities.”
Once dormant due to the civil conflict, Liberia’s cocoa sector is now undergoing a revival, positioning the country as a rising player in West Africa’s competitive cocoa trade.
