African Cocoa Farmers Risk Losing Access to EU Market Due to New Regulations

The Global President of the Coffee Farmers Alliance Association of Africa, Adeola Adegoke, has warned that nearly half of African smallholder cocoa farmers might be cut off from the European market. This is due to new compliance requirements under the European Union Deforestation Regulation. Adegoke shared these concerns at the Africa Cocoa and Coffee Conference in Lagos, where discussions focused on improving African involvement in international trade policies.

Adegoke explained that the new regulation aims to ensure that products entering the EU are not linked to deforestation. However, many small farmers may struggle to meet these requirements because they lack the necessary financial resources, technology, and documentation systems. He stated, “Up to 40 per cent of African smallholder farmers could face exclusion from the European market if they are unable to comply with the requirements.”

At the conference, participants called for stronger support for farmers to help them meet these evolving market demands. Adegoke emphasized the importance of improving traceability systems and enhancing the negotiating power of African cocoa-producing countries to protect farmers from potential trade disruptions.

Another topic of concern was the rise of cell-cultured cocoa technologies, which could impact traditional cocoa farming communities. Adegoke warned that increased investment in these alternative production methods might reduce demand for conventionally grown cocoa, creating uncertainty for farmers who rely on it for their livelihoods.

The conference concluded with the adoption of the Lagos Declaration 2026, which outlines commitments to improve farmers’ livelihoods and expand African ownership in the cocoa and coffee sectors. More than 200 delegates attended, representing various stakeholders including governments, businesses, and research institutions.

The Lagos Declaration emphasizes the need for coordinated action in areas such as sustainability, productivity, and farmers’ welfare. Participants agreed to develop strategic plans to enhance farmers’ incomes, strengthen cooperatives, and promote local processing and African brands. The goal is to ensure that a larger share of the value generated from cocoa and coffee production remains within Africa.