Beginning May 2, 2025, all individuals and businesses engaged in the export of unprocessed rubber, cashew, or shea from Ghana will be required to obtain written authorisation from the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), in accordance with new regulatory measures aimed at streamlining the sector.
The directive was contained in a public notice signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the TCDA, Mr. Andy Osei Okrah, and is grounded in the Tree Crops Development Authority Act, 2019 (Act 1010) and the Tree Crops Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2471).
“This directive serves to inform all Actors and Entities involved in the export of unprocessed rubber, cashew, and shea of their obligation to comply with the provisions of the Tree Crops Regulations,” the Authority said.
The TCDA announced that effective May 2, Regulation 50 of L.I. 2471 will be enforced. Under this provision, all exporters of the specified crops must secure a valid permit from the Authority before any shipment can proceed.
In addition to the new permit requirement, exporters must now show proof of payment of TCDA development levies before being issued a Phytosanitary Certificate by the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD), a crucial document for international trade in plant-based products.
“The Phytosanitary Certificate will not be issued unless the exporter provides evidence of compliance with TCDA regulations, including the payment of all applicable levies,” the Authority stated.
The TCDA warned that failure to adhere to the directive constitutes a breach of law and may result in sanctions under the TCDA Act.
The Authority urged all licensed exporters to regularise their operations and ensure full compliance with L.I. 2471 to avoid disruptions in their export activities.
Support and Enquiries
Stakeholders seeking permits or clarification have been advised to visit the TCDA head office at No. 20 Nii Tsatse Dzani Street, East Legon-Ajiringanor, Accra (GhanaPost GPS: GD-253-5931). Further assistance is available via telephone on 0303 981 790 / 0243 946 145 or by email at info@tcda.gov.gh.
