TCDA tightens oversight of palm oil imports

The Tree Crop Development Authority (TCDA) has issued a directive requiring all importers of crude palm oil and related products to register with the agency and obtain permits before bringing such goods into the country, effective July 14, 2025.

The move forms part of a broader effort to strengthen regulatory oversight across the oil palm value chain and ensure compliance with Legislative Instrument 2471, which mandates the registration and licensing of all actors in the sector.

The new policy applies to imports of crude palm oil, crude palm olein, and palm olein (refined vegetable oil).

The directive marks a shift towards tighter control over the oil palm trade, which has long operated with limited oversight despite its strategic role in Ghana’s agricultural sector.

“All actors and entities involved in the importation of palm oil products must register with the TCDA to ensure compliance with the law,” the Authority said in a statement signed by Dr Andy Osei Okrah, Chief Executive Officer. It warned that failure to comply would amount to a breach of the TCDA Act, potentially attracting sanctions.

The TCDA, established under Act 1010 in 2019, is tasked with regulating and developing key tree crops including rubber, cashew, shea, mango, coconut, and oil palm. Officials say the registration requirement is designed not only to formalise the sector but also to enhance traceability and transparency in the importation of palm oil products.

TCDA noted that the directive will also help curb substandard imports, as a lot of products coming into the country are without proper scrutiny, which affects local processors and consumer safety.

The authority also plans to publish a list of registered and licensed actors in the palm oil value chain. According to the TCDA, this public disclosure will help buyers and regulators identify compliant firms and reduce the risk of illicit trading.

Industry players are being urged to initiate the registration process early by contacting the TCDA offices in East Legon or reaching out via the agency’s listed phone numbers and email.

The oil palm industry is a key focus for Ghana’s agricultural diversification agenda but concerns over imports undermining domestic production have intensified in recent years.

The stricter import regulations may provide some protection for local producers, though enforcement will be key.

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