Amidst the fluctuating economic climate, Lagos residents are adapting to escalating tomato prices, seeking viable alternatives. In the Amuwo area, Mrs. Olachi Iroha reports a transition to palm kernel stew, stating, "Tomato is expensive now, so if the costs keep rising, we will switch to the alternative." In recent purchases, a small paint bucket of tomatoes commanded a price of N8,000 (approximately $10.40). Faced with these conditions, Iroha indicates a prioritization of affordable options.
Sensitivity to price shifts is echoed by other residents, such as Mrs. Temitope Babalola-Hodonu from Alimosho. She narrates purchasing a mini basket for N50,000 (roughly $65), a stark increase from weeks prior, and notes, "We do hope for a change in this situation, because not everybody likes tomato alternatives."
The repercussions extend to the food catering industry. A vendor known as Iya Adetoun at Dopemu highlights profit challenges due to soaring prices. A small bucket, previously obtained for N6,000 or N7,000 ($7.80 or $9.10), now costs N35,000 ($45.50). The vendor expresses, "We hope the price drops because how can we break even if we continue buying at this exorbitant price?"
Price surges necessitate inventive culinary adjustments. Mrs. Anne Odafe from Ago Palace Way supplements limited tomato stocks with tinned versions, describing an economic tactic to sustain family meals. She adds, "Tomatoes worth N4,000 ($5.20) cannot go anywhere if you consider the quantity of stew you need to prepare."
In adapting to high prices, consumer Mrs. Ifeoma Okoye blends tomatoes with cucumbers, spring onions, and cabbage, although with reservations. She remarks, "The high cost of tomatoes is no longer funny considering the low purchasing power of most households."
Currently, a 50kg tomato bundle retails between N85,000 and N100,000 ($110 to $130) in southern markets, reflecting the earlier North's prices of up to N50,000 ($65). This landscape drives consumers and sector players towards solution-oriented strategies in response to economic pressures.
Source: Vanguard
