TCDA Enforces New Permit System for Palm Oil Imports Effective July 14, 2025

The Tree Crop Development Authority (TCDA) has announced the introduction of a new regulatory framework that mandates all importers of palm oil products into Ghana to register and obtain official permits before engaging in any import activities. This new directive, which takes effect on 14th July 2025, is part of broader efforts aimed at sanitising the palm oil sector, promoting sustainability, and protecting local producers from unfair market practices.

In an official statement released by the Authority and shared with GraphicOnline, the TCDA stated that the new requirement specifically targets the importation of Crude Palm Oil (CPO), Crude Palm Olein, and Refined Palm Olein—commonly referred to as vegetable oil. According to the Authority, these categories of palm oil will now fall under stricter regulatory oversight, and all businesses involved in their importation must register with the TCDA and obtain a valid license before conducting any related transactions.

The regulation is grounded in the provisions of the Tree Crops Development Authority Act, 2019 (Act 1010) and its accompanying Legislative Instrument, L.I. 2471. It applies not only to importers but also to processors and traders who operate within the oil palm value chain. All stakeholders are required to adhere to the new guidelines in order to maintain compliance with national laws governing the sector.

The TCDA emphasised that the influx of unregulated and often substandard palm oil products into the Ghanaian market has created significant challenges for the domestic industry. These challenges have been particularly felt by smallholder farmers and local processors, who have had to compete with cheaper, sometimes inferior imported products. The Authority noted that this situation has led to unfair competition, price distortions, and a reduction in the quality of products available to consumers.

“This bold initiative is a strategic step towards strengthening regulation and enhancing operational standards in Ghana’s vital oil palm sector,” the TCDA noted. “Our goal is to uphold quality and safety across all imported palm oil products, ensure a level playing field for local producers, and boost investor confidence through improved governance and transparency.”

To comply with the new regulations, all importers and stakeholders are required to register at the TCDA Head Office, located at No. 20 Nii Tsatse Dzani Street, East Legon-Ajiriganor, Accra. The GhanaPost GPS code for the office is GD-253-5931. Further inquiries and submissions can be made via telephone at 0303 981790 or 0243 946 154, and by email at info@tcda.gov.gh.

The Authority issued a strong warning that failure to comply with the new framework would constitute a breach of national law. Offenders will face penalties and sanctions as outlined under the Tree Crops Development Authority Act and related legislative instruments. The TCDA stressed the importance of industry compliance in ensuring a more organised and productive oil palm sector in Ghana.

As part of its broader transparency and accountability strategy, the Authority has also announced plans to publish a comprehensive list of all registered and licensed actors in the oil palm industry. This move is expected to further enhance regulatory oversight, increase public confidence, and support efforts to formalise the sector.

The oil palm industry remains a critical component of Ghana’s agricultural economy, providing employment to thousands of Ghanaians and serving as a key input for agro-processing industries. With this new regulatory directive, the TCDA aims to secure the long-term growth and sustainability of the industry by ensuring that only quality, legally sourced palm oil enters the domestic market.