馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Tomato prices in Nigeria expected to decline from August as wet-season harvest begins
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria TOPAN has assured Nigerians that the current high prices of tomatoes are expected to decrease significantly from August. This decline is anticipated as the wet-season harvest begins to enter the market. Mr. Rabiu Zuntu, the Kaduna State Chairman of TOPAN, stated that the price surge is seasonal and that supplies will improve once farmers start harvesting wet-season tomatoes. He noted that a 50kg basket of tomatoes, which cost between N18,000 and N20,000 in January, now sells for N100,000 to N130,000. Similarly, a 25kg crate is currently priced at N50,000 to N70,000 in Lagos wholesale markets. Zuntu explained that the adoption of flood-resistant tomato varieties has enabled farmers to cultivate during the rainy season, contributing to increased production. He attributed the recurring scarcity between May and June to climate change, including unpredictable rainfall and extreme heat. Zuntu called for more cold-chain storage facilities from the government and private investors to reduce post-harvest losses and stabilize prices year-round. He also urged the government to strengthen support for tomato farmers through interventions like improved seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals to ensure food security and price stability.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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