The Chairman of the Tomato Traders Association of Ghana, Eric Osei Tuffuor, has expressed deep concern over Burkina Faso’s decision to suspend the export of fresh tomatoes, warning that the move could have serious consequences for both traders and consumers in Ghana.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he described the situation as a major setback, noting that tomatoes are a key ingredient in many Ghanaian households.
“This is a blow to us as an association and to Ghanaian consumers. A lot of people depend on fresh tomatoes to cook,” he said.
He cautioned that even a short shortage could negatively affect the market. “Even if tomatoes go short for just one week, what will happen will not be good at all for consumers,” he added, urging the government to urgently intervene.
Mr. Tuffuor stressed that traders are already struggling due to the lack of proper storage facilities, which often results in losses. “From the beginning, tomato traders are always at a loss because we don’t have strong storage facilities,” he explained.
He noted that traders rely heavily on peak seasons such as Easter to make some profit and are therefore worried about the impact of the ban on their business.
According to him, a delegation from the association visited Burkina Faso in December last year, where they engaged the country’s Minister of Agriculture and other officials.
“The Agric Minister assured us that they expect a bumper harvest because even prisoners are involved in tomato farming. They told us they don’t joke with tomato production,” he said.
He added that Ghana remains the main market for Burkina Faso’s tomatoes, making the ban particularly concerning.
Mr. Tuffuor said the association later contacted the Ghana Mission in Burkina Faso, which confirmed that the export ban had indeed been imposed.
He called for dialogue, suggesting that Burkina Faso be given time to allow traders to adjust. “We wanted them to at least give us until the end of April so we can prepare ourselves,” he said.
“We are very sad about this situation,” he added, expressing concern over the potential impact on businesses and consumers.
His comments come in response to Burkina Faso’s decision to suspend fresh tomato exports effective March 16, 2026.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has announced plans to engage authorities in Burkina Faso to address the issue, with efforts underway to safeguard supply and maintain trade relations between the two countries.
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