The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has strongly pushed back against recent media reports alleging under-invoicing in Ghana’s raw rubber exports, describing the publications as misleading, unverified, and “paid propaganda.”
The Authority specifically cited articles published by the Daily Graphic on March 31, 2026, New Republic on April 2, 2026, and MyJoyOnline on April 1, 2026, all of which suggested major financial irregularities in the rubber export sector.
In a detailed rejoinder, TCDA dismissed the allegations, insisting that the reports were not grounded in credible data and failed to engage the appropriate regulatory bodies.
No Proper Verification
According to TCDA, the Daily Graphic did not seek the Authority’s input before publishing its story, despite TCDA being the statutory regulator of the tree crops sector. The Authority said this omission points to a “predetermined narrative” rather than a genuine investigation.
Misleading Comparisons on Export Permits
TCDA explained that comparisons made between 2024 and 2025 export figures were flawed, noting that the permit regime for raw rubber exports only came into force on May 2, 2025. As such, any comparison with 2024 data—when no such system existed—is inaccurate.
Incorrect Interpretation of Pricing
The Authority also rejected claims that annual average rubber prices indicate under-invoicing. It clarified that pricing is based on monthly minimum producer prices, which fluctuate in line with global market trends, making annual averages unreliable.
Unverified Financial Allegations
Figures cited in the reports, including $49.6 million and $21 million, were described as unsubstantiated. TCDA stressed that no official institution, including the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) or the Ministry of Finance, has validated these claims.
Foreign Exchange Claims Dismissed
Addressing assertions about exporters retaining proceeds abroad, TCDA noted that only the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has the authority to supervise such matters under the Foreign Exchange Act. It said the reports failed to confirm these allegations with the central bank.
Legal Market Access
TCDA further refuted suggestions that the rubber market should be restricted to local processors. It emphasized that farmers are legally permitted to sell to any licensed buyer, whether local or international.
Questionable Data on Production
The Authority also challenged production and processing figures cited for 2025, stating that they could not be verified by any mandated agency and appeared to be “designed to provoke outrage.”
Routine Correspondence Misrepresented
Letters referenced in the publications as evidence of tension were described as routine policy communications, not indications of conflict within the sector.
Regulatory Efforts Overlooked
TCDA criticized the reports for ignoring its regulatory interventions since 2019, particularly the introduction of the export permit regime in May 2025, which it said was a key reform to strengthen oversight.
Demand for Apology
The Authority concluded that the reports fell short of basic journalistic standards and has called for a front-page rejoinder with equal prominence to the original stories. TCDA has given the media outlets until April 10, 2026, to publish the correction to ensure the public receives a balanced and accurate account.
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Source:
www.myjoyonline.com