Tomato Transporters Welcome Policy Shift but Raise Concerns Over Supply and Irrigation

The National President of the Tomato Transporters Association, Osei Tuffour, has revealed that recent developments surrounding Burkina Faso’s tomato export ban had only a minimal short-term impact on Ghana’s market, but highlighted deeper structural challenges affecting the sector.

Speaking to Kojo Preko Dankwa on Kessben Maakye, Mr. Tuffour, insisted, when the Burkinabè government initially imposed a ban on tomato exports, Ghanaian importers were granted a two-week window to bring in limited quantities of the commodity.

“Within that same period, the ban was lifted,” he explained, noting that the short duration meant traders did not significantly feel the full impact of the restriction.

However, he disclosed that the lifting of the ban came with new conditions. Burkina Faso is now prioritizing the processing of tomatoes in its local factories alongside exportation, a move that has reduced the volume available to Ghanaian traders.

“As it stands, we cannot get the same level of supply as before. Sometimes, excess produce even goes to waste,” he said.

Mr. Tuffour further explained that the initial ban was driven by pricing disparities. Ghanaian traders were reportedly offering higher prices than those set by the Burkinabè government for its local farmers, making exports to Ghana more attractive and undermining supply to domestic processing factories.

“The continuous flow of tomatoes to Ghana was affecting their local processing industry, hence the decision to impose the ban,” he added.

Despite these challenges, the Association has expressed support for Ghana’s efforts to boost local tomato production. Mr. Tuffour emphasized that improving seed varieties is crucial to increasing yield and ensuring sustainable supply.

“If we want to increase local production, the type of seed used is very important because it determines the yield,” he noted.

He also pointed to inadequate irrigation systems as a major obstacle to year-round production in Ghana.

“Our biggest concern is the lack of irrigation facilities to support consistent production and meet market demand,” he said.

Mr. Tuffour disclosed that he will be engaging members of the association to align with government initiatives aimed at strengthening local agriculture.

“I am going to negotiate with all my members to support government efforts in helping Ghanaian farmers,” he stated.

He expressed optimism about the future of the sector, adding, “I believe a time will come when Ghana will produce enough tomatoes and we will no longer depend on imports from Burkina Faso.”