Effective from May 2, 2025, it will be mandatory for all individuals and businesses engaged in the export of unprocessed rubber, cashew, or shea from Ghana to secure written authorization from the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA).
This initiative aims to strengthen regulatory oversight and promote value addition within the sector. This directive was communicated through a public notice signed by TCDA Chief Executive Officer, Andy Osei Okrah, and is based on the Authority’s legal authority as outlined in the Tree Crops Development Authority Act, 2019 (Act 1010) and the Tree Crops Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2471), which regulate the development, processing, and trade of key crops including rubber, cashew, shea, mango, coconut, and oil palm.
The TCDA has highlighted that Regulation 50 of L.I. 2471 will come into effect on the specified date, mandating exporters of the aforementioned commodities to obtain a valid export permit before any shipment.
The notice further stated, ‘All participants and stakeholders involved in the export of raw rubber, cashew, and shea are hereby informed to adhere strictly to the requirements set forth in the Tree Crops Regulations.’
As part of the enforcement measures, licensed exporters are being encouraged to regularize their export transactions with the Authority to ensure compliance with statutory guidelines.
Furthermore, exporters will be required to provide proof of payment for TCDA development levies prior to receiving a Phytosanitary Certificate, which is essential for international trade, from the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD).
The certificate will not be issued without this verification. The Authority has also warned that failure to adhere to this directive will be considered a legal infringement and will result in penalties as outlined in the TCDA Act.
This initiative is part of the TCDA’s comprehensive strategy to enhance regulatory compliance, encourage value addition, and support Ghana’s economic development through a more organized and sustainable export framework for tree crops.
